Kitchen worktops are a vital part of any kitchen, and there is a wide range to choose from. Therefore, selecting the right one is not always straightforward. It can be about the aesthetic appeal, but practicality and budget are equally important.
So, where do Corian worktops fit into your kitchen ideas, or do they? What do they offer that other kitchen worktops do not? What makes them a preferable choice over others? Are Corian worktops within your budget?
In this article we take a look at the key features of Corian worktops to help you determine if they meet your needs or not.
What is a Corian worktop?
Corian worktops are not as common as laminate or solid wood, but are still a popular choice. Not sure exactly what they are? Steve Larkin, CEO and co-founder of Kitchen Door Hub, offers a brief explanation.
“Corian worktops are made from a blend of natural minerals and acrylic resin, with this usually being a third resin and two-thirds minerals. It is often used for kitchen worktops," he confirms, "and can be formed into custom shapes to accommodate items such as integrated kitchen sinks.”
Steve Larkin is the co-founder and CEO of Kitchen Door Hub with years of experience in kitchen design, carpentry and fitting. Kitchen Door Hub are passionate about helping homeowners craft their dream spaces and are with them for every step of their renovation journey.
Key features of Corian worktops
Is a Corian worktop the ideal choice for your next kitchen renovation project? While there are some disadvantages to Corian, such as it being less durable than other worktop surfaces such as granite, it's not with its positives.
1. Can be custom cut to create a tailored look
One of the main benefits of Corian is the opportunity it offers to create a bespoke finish.
“Because Corian is thermoformable and joined invisibly on site, it creates uninterrupted lines with coved upstands that give it a tailored look,” explains Blanca Sanchez, Director at Halo Design Interiors.
“Corian can also be formed and moulded to custom shapes," adds Steve Larkin, "so it can be made to have curved edges, integrated sinks and be used to create shapes that would otherwise not be possible with stone worktops.”
2. Has a modern appearance that suits contemporary design
If your kitchen design preferences lean towards a more modern finish, then Corian can certainly be a candidate for your worktop surfaces.
Available in a variety of colours and styles, its smooth and minimal appearance is perfect if you want your worktop to seamlessly complete your overall look. Perfect for finishes such as waterfall worktops or split level kitchen islands, it's a good option if you want a luxurious look on a mid-range budget.
3. Is a hygienic material perfect for worktop surfaces
As Corian worktops are non-porous, this makes them a great choice for kitchens, shares Steve Larkin. “Corian does not allow bacteria to enter, and as liquid is unable to penetrate the surface of the worktop, this also makes the worktops more stain-resistant.”
“Common culprits like red wine, coffee and turmeric usually lift with a non-scratch cream cleaner or a brief, diluted bleach contact followed by thorough rinsing and drying,” advises Blanca Sanchez.
However, says Steve Larkin, “strong dyes or leaving spills uncleaned for too long can leave marks on the worktop surface.” To keep a Corian surface clean, Blanca says, “a consistent cleaning routine keeps the surface even, making long-term staining uncommon.”
4. Minor damage to Corian can be repaired
Thanks to its thermoformable nature, "Corian is repairable, which makes it well-suited to sophisticated kitchens, utility rooms and bathrooms where daily use meets high design,” says Blanca Sanchez.
Using a light sandpaper grade can usually remove surface scratches, but for structural damage and deep cracks, it must be noted that you will need to call in a professional to fix them.
5. It offers an element of longevity when maintained
If you look after a Corian worktop, it will probably outlive other parts of a kitchen, suggests Steve Larkin.
“Corian worktops can last for a long period of time, if given the proper care. This includes promptly cleaning spills to prevent staining and avoiding direct contact with hot cookware.”
Try these products to help look after Corian worktops
Protect your worktop surfaces with this decorative heart-shaped, durable, cast-iron trivet. It has a glossy finish and rubber feet prevent scratching and damage to your kitchen surfaces.
This bundle comes with three different surface cleaning products. Included are an All Purpose Power Spray, Stain Remover and Multi Surface Cleaner and All Purpose Power Cream.
Measuring 30 x 40 x 3.5cm, this bamboo cutting board boasts a central food grip for holding meat, veg and bread. Features easy-pour corners and an integrated handle to carry.
Blanca Sanchez is a UK-based interior designer with 20+ years’ experience at Halo Design Interiors. From interior architecture to furniture, fixtures and equipment, they have worked on countless new-build and renovation projects throughout the UK and Europe.
Corian worktop costs
The cost for Corian worktops will vary says Blanca Sanchez, although on the whole, it is cheaper than products such as marble or granite. And, it's also more durable than low budget worktops which can be prone to chips and dents.
“Pricing sits across bands defined by complexity rather than just the material," explains Blanca. “At the simplest level, a straight run in a standard colour, with a basic edge and minimal cut-outs, tends to start around £600 to £700 per linear metre installed.”
“Mid-range worktops typically include templating, colour upgrades, a coved upstand, an undermount sink, drainer grooves and some shaping," she says. Prices for this typically sit around £700 to £900 per linear metre.
If you're looking to get the best in Corian worktops, Blanca says you can expect to be paying £900 to £1200+ per linear metre. What's different about the higher price? “These can have integrated Corian sinks, thick edge build-ups, curves, large kitchen islands, cladding or splashbacks, and more site complexity,” she explains.
To get a better idea of costs for your specific needs, most kitchen design companies will offer Corian as an option, and are best placed to confirm prices. Alternatively, there are beskpoke worktop companies if you are just looking to upgrade your worktops rather than embarking on a full kitchen renovation.
If you are considering adding a Corian worktop to your latest kitchen layout ideas, try these kitchen design apps to help you plan ahead.
If fitting yourself, ensure your kitchen worktop height is appropriate so you’re not bending down too far or reaching too high.
