Corian vs. Quartz: Comparing Cost, Durability, and Design Appeal

When it comes to countertops for your client’s home, there are plenty of choices, and the decision often comes down to budget.

As a result, designers must weigh the upfront cost savings of Corian against the superior long-term performance and resale value of quartz. To effectively guide your client toward the right material that best fits their home, lifestyle, and long-term plans, it is critical to compare the true cost, long-term durability, and overall aesthetics of Corian versus quartz.

What Is Quartz?

Quartz countertops are an engineered stone composite. For Caesarstone Quartz slabs, we use approximately 90% loose quartz minerals combined with polymer resins and pigments. 

This blending and molding process results in exceptional consistency, durability, and a vast array of aesthetic options that can even mimic the look of natural materials such as granite and marble.

To see examples, explore our quartz countertops page.

What Is Corian?

Corian is a brand name commonly used to refer to solid surface materials made from a blend of polymer (about 33%) and natural minerals. It was initially developed as a superior alternative to laminate.

Thanks to how it is made, Corian is virtually seamless and fully repairable. It comes with a lower price point than quartz and other premium countertops — and this monetary advantage is Corian’s primary claim to fame. The surface requires occasional sanding and refinishing for deep scratches and buffing to maintain its shine. 

Quartz vs. Corian: 3 Ways to Compare 

1. Price and Resale Opportunities

• Upfront Cost: Corian is typically less expensive than quartz, ranging from $26 to $80 per square foot. Comparatively, quality quartz starts around $40 and can extend well beyond $200 per square foot.
• Long-Term Value: Corian’s lack of durability and poor appeal mean it does not increase resale value, making the overall cost of ownership higher over time.

Final Verdict: Cheaper than quartz, Corian can meet lower homeowner budgets but will need to be replaced sooner, which may actually make it the costlier option in the long run. 

2. Durability and Handling Hot Pots

• Strength and Hygiene: Quartz is far stronger and more resilient than Corian. Corian, being a soft polymer (Mohs scale 2), scratches easily, creating crevices for bacteria to thrive. With quartz, the nonporous nature and hardness (Mohs scale 7) of the material  ensure it resists scratches, mold, and mildew.
• Heat Resistance: Placing a hot pan on Corian will almost certainly leave a mark due to its high polymer content. Quartz handles heat significantly better, although direct contact with hot items should be avoided.

Final Verdict: When comparing the strength of Corian versus quartz, we have a clear winner in quartz.

3. Aesthetics and Unique Features

• The Look: Corian has an artificial look and feel because of its uniform matte finish, and it typically lacks depth and variation. Quartz’s primarily natural composition and advanced manufacturing results in clean, classic looks, with veining and mineral flecks providing realistic depth and movement. These processes ensure the premium quartz surface realistically mimics granite or marble. 
• Seams: Corian’s construction allows for virtually invisible seams, creating a monolithic look. Quartz seams, while tight and professional, are typically visible due to the material’s natural variation.
• Tech Integration: Corian can offer wireless charging capabilities, though this adds cost and maintenance.

Final Verdict: While Corian has its advantages, most homeowners prize the upscale aesthetic of quartz.

Why Quartz Is King

Quartz countertops offer the best combination of features for a modern home. They provide maximum durability, exceptional aesthetics, superior hygiene, and worry-free maintenance that no natural or solid-surface stone can match.

By choosing a high-quality quartz surface from Caesarstone, your clients are investing in a product that not only withstands the daily abuse of a busy home but also acts as a key selling point, providing excellent long-term value.

Ready to Invest in the Best?

Order a Caesarstone Quartz sample to explore the infinite design possibilities for your next project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Corian cheaper than quartz countertops?

Corian is cheaper than quartz upfront, but it will cost more over the long term due to its fragility and poor resale value. You can expect to pay between $26 and $80 per square foot for Corian, while quartz starts at $40 and can extend well beyond $200 per square foot.

Is Corian cheaper than granite?

Corian is cheaper than granite upfront; however, granite comes with its own potential issues that may give Corian the slight edge. For one, granite is porous: You need to seal it as often as twice yearly; otherwise, it will stain. Corian, like quartz, is nonporous and, as such, is highly resistant to staining.

Does Corian scratch easily?

Yes, Corian scratches easily compared to quartz. The sort of plastics used in Corian rank low (2) on the Mohs hardness scale, while mineral quartz ranks high (7).

How do you keep Corian countertops shiny?

Maintaining a glossy finish on Corian requires regular buffing with a microfiber cloth and special polish. Glossy quartz maintains its shine for years with proper care and avoids the need for special polish.