How Much Do Corian Countertops Cost to Install?

Corian Price Per Square Foot

The cost of Corian per square foot depends on the demand for that color. A trending shade will likely sell for more than last season’s color story. For example, Abalone Corian countertops are having a moment, and their price reflects it.

• Abalone: $30 per square foot. 

• Acadia: $20 per square foot. 

• Acorn: $22 per square foot. 

• Allspice: $30 per square foot.

What Are Corian Countertops?

Corian is a synthetic substance made from acrylic polymer and alumina trihydrate (ATH), resulting in a cross between laminate and granite. DuPont invented Corian in 1967 and patented it in 1968. This patent expired in 2003, allowing other companies to make and sell their version under other brand names.

While Corian costs more to install than granite, laminate, and polyester, you’ll recoup the purchase price quickly because it lasts longer and won’t fade over time. Only polyester surfaces can match Corian's lifespan, but it requires more maintenance. 

If repair becomes necessary, removing shallow nicks and scratches on Corian surfaces takes less time. It’s non-porous, so a pro can simply buff them out with fine-grained sandpaper.

Corian Styles

Corian Countertops are available in various colors and thicknesses. Pinpointing the exact pricing of various styles is tough because many are sold via private retailers. In general, most brands range between $45 and $65 per square foot. 

The thickness of Corian countertops ranges from 1/4 to 3/4 inches. The thicker you go, the more expensive (and durable) your countertops will be. Contact a countertop installer for more information on selecting the best options for your countertop.

Get the Best Price on Corian Countertops

There are a couple of ways to cut costs on Corian countertops, but the methods are not without compromise. For example, you could opt for a thinner slab of Corian, but you’ll sacrifice durability. Similarly, consider skipping over the trendiest colors and pick one from last season to save on costs. 

Cost to Install Corian Countertops

How much you pay to install Corian counters depends on your contractor or retailer, the size and shape of your counters, and where you live. Budget around $10 and $30 per square foot for labor, but you can save 50% by choosing pre-made countertop materials like slabs because they are easier to install. 

Once you’ve contacted a local countertop contractor, ask them to break down the full installation process and all associated costs line-by-line before approving the project. For reference, at $75 to $145 per hour, it will cost you $450 to $1,250 to install a full-size kitchen countertop requiring about six to nine work hours. The installation team typically consists of two to three workers.

If you’re replacing an existing countertop, removing and disposing of your existing countertop may require another six hours (or more). This costs $20 to $40 per hour or roughly $120 to $240 for complete projects. 

Refinishing Corian Countertops Cost

Refinishing Corian countertops requires buffing out damage such as scratches and cuts with sandpaper and filling it with color-matched or clear epoxy. Professional Corian refinishing costs range between $200 and $500, depending on the surface area requiring repair.

Corian Maintenance

Because its surface is water-resistant and non-porous, Corian doesn’t need a sealant, which reduces its recurring maintenance cost. Treat it with an ammonia-based household or countertop cleaner, many of which are easy to find at your local supermarket. Don’t use window cleaners since they are prone to leaving a waxy buildup on Corian that removes its glimmering sheen. 

Here are some more tips for cleaning Corian:

• Remove dirt and residue with soapy water.

• Clean up spills before they dry to prevent hard watermarks.

• Use a cleaner designed to remove hard watermarks that have dried.

• Use a deep cleaner to remove stubborn debris.

Keep Corian counters dry to prevent a patina from forming. Darker shades of Corian require more cleaning since light-colored debris (like dust) is more visible. These colors also show scratches more easily.

Damage

Corian is heat-resistant, but you should still avoid exposing it to direct heat. Place a pad on top of the countertop before putting a pan on it. If you have a toaster oven on your countertop, place a heat trivet under it.

You can lower the need for repairs and the associated costs by taking these steps to prevent damage. 

• Keep paint removers and other chemicals away from surfaces, as they can cause stains. Throw water on these spills immediately if they do occur.

• Avoid spilling boiling water on these surfaces. It won’t damage the surface, but it will wear down the finish.

• Never cut directly on a countertop. Use a cutting board instead.

Warranties

The warranties for Corian surfaces depend on the manufacturer. For example, DuPont offers a 10-year limited warranty on its models. You’ll typically need to register your purchase with the maker to validate the warranty. Installers should also include a warranty on the labor in case you have any problems with the finished product. Check with your installer on the specific terms of their warranty.

Manufacturer warranties generally cover defects only, not damage. For example, DuPont’s warranty specifically excludes the following causes of damage to Corian surfaces:

• Mishandling

• Misuse

• Acts of nature

• Physical abuse

• Chemical abuse

• Excessive heat

Corian vs. Granite and Quartz Countertop Costs

Although Corian countertop prices are reasonable, they’re not always the most cost-effective solid-surface option— especially when compared to granite and quartz. 

Granite

The cost of granite countertops is similar to more affordable Corian slabs. Both types start at about $50 per square foot, including labor. However, granite tops out at $100 per square foot, while Corian can reach $150 per square foot.

Quartz

It is possible to find quartz counters for about the same price as the cheapest Corian models, but the quartz will typically be of lower quality. Good quality quartz can cost quite a bit more than Corian, up to $200 per square foot.

FAQ

Is Corian a good choice for kitchen countertops?

Corian is a competitive choice for kitchen countertops and is one of the three most popular materials, including granite and quartz. In addition to its affordability, no two Corian slabs look the same, which is also a major advantage of Corian over natural materials like granite and quartz.

Do Corian countertops scratch easily?

Corian is softer than granite and quartz, so it is more prone to scratches. However, it’s also easy to buff out scratches in Corian with sandpaper. In contrast, stony materials like granite and quartz aren’t as easy to repair.

How do you install Corian countertops?

While it is possible to install Corian countertops yourself, the process requires many specialized skills and tools to ensure the project is done successfully. Hiring a pro for this job will help ensure the project goes off without damage. 

• Sketch the counter area. If you're installing it in your kitchen, sketch the location of appliances and fixtures. These often include the sink, stove, dishwasher, and fridge. Include any inlays or edge treatments in your sketch as well. If you’re installing the counter in the bathroom, including the position of the sink, vanity, bathtub, and shower.

• Measure the counter space: Measure the length and width of your current counter space to ensure you buy the right pieces. You can also hire a contractor to do the measurements. Make sure to note the space between the counter and fixtures, like the bathtub and sink. Also, record the position of open doors to ensure they will clear the new counter.

• Find a dealer: Many local retailers stock Corian counters, as do some mom-and-pop stores. Take your measurements with you when you look at options. You can also talk to a contractor with access to these counters and provide them with the measurements.

• Let the pros work: You may need to supply a deposit before the contractor begins work, but be sure you’re working with a good contractor and have the contractual agreement in writing. Once you select a contractor, they’ll send someone to double-check your measurements and cut the pieces. Then they will install them, which may require moving appliances.

What are the pros and cons of Corian countertops?

Corian countertops come with many advantages, like the fact that they’re water- and stain-resistant, easy to clean, and beautiful. 

However, one of the biggest disadvantages of Corian is its low heat resistance compared to materials like granite and quartz. A metal pot filled with boiling water can discolor a Corian surface. Vulnerability to scratching is also one of Corian’s major drawbacks.

How long do Corian countertops last?

Although Corian countertop warranties usually only last for 10 years, the countertops themselves can live for 30 years or more with proper care. 

Is Silestone the same as Corian?

While Silestone and Corian countertops may look similar, the two are completely different. For one, Corian is a solid surface because it contains a high amount of resins. Silestone is a type of engineered stone because it contains actual quartz. All that said, Silestone costs are similar to Corian at $50 to $100 per square foot on average.