Corian vs. Granite: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Published on January 19, 2024
Corian is a brand of solid surface material known for its versatility and seamless appearance, while granite is a natural stone renowned for its unique patterns and durability.
Key Differences
Corian is a man-made product composed of acrylic polymer and alumina trihydrate, offering a smooth, non-porous surface. Granite is a natural stone, formed from cooled magma, known for its grainy appearance and robustness.
Corian countertops are customizable and can be fabricated into various shapes and sizes without visible seams. Granite countertops, being natural stone, come in unique slabs, each with its own pattern and color variation.
In terms of durability, Corian is less prone to cracking but can scratch and is sensitive to high heat. Granite is more scratch and heat resistant but can crack under severe impact.
Maintenance of Corian involves simple cleaning, but it may require professional buffing to remove scratches. Granite requires periodic sealing to maintain its non-porous nature and prevent staining.
Corian offers a uniform appearance and a wider range of colors and patterns, suited for modern designs. Granite adds a luxurious, one-of-a-kind look to spaces but has limited color options based on natural availability.
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Comparison Chart
Composition
Man-made (acrylic polymer)
Natural stone
Appearance
Uniform, customizable
Unique patterns, natural look
Durability
Scratchable, sensitive to heat
Resistant to scratches and heat
Maintenance
Easy, may need buffing
Requires sealing, less frequent maintenance
Design Options
Wide range of colors
Limited to natural stone variations
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Corian and Granite Definitions
Corian
Corian offers a wide range of colors and finishes.
They selected a matte black Corian for the kitchen island.
Granite
Granite is a hard, granular, igneous rock used in construction.
The lobby featured polished granite floors.
Corian
Corian is known for its non-porous and hygienic surface.
They chose Corian for the bathroom vanity for its hygienic properties.
Granite
Granite is highly durable and resistant to scratches.
The granite worktops remained unscathed despite heavy use.
Corian
Corian is used in both residential and commercial settings.
The hotel's reception desk was made of elegant white Corian.
Granite
Granite is prized for its unique natural patterns.
Each granite countertop has a distinctive pattern.
Corian
Corian can be thermoformed into various shapes.
The designer created a curved bar top from Corian.
Granite
Granite requires periodic sealing to maintain its quality.
To preserve its shine, the granite was sealed annually.
Corian
Corian is a brand of solid surface material used for countertops.
The kitchen had beautifully seamless Corian countertops.
Granite
Granite is a popular choice for high-end kitchen countertops.
Their new kitchen had stunning granite countertops.
Granite
A common, coarse-grained, light-colored, hard igneous rock consisting chiefly of quartz, orthoclase or microcline, and mica, used in monuments and for building.
Granite
Unyielding endurance; steadfastness
A will of granite.
Granite
(rock) A group of igneous and plutonic rocks composed primarily of feldspar and quartz. Usually contains one or more dark minerals, which may be mica, pyroxene, or amphibole. Granite is quarried for building stone, road gravel, decorative stone, and tombstones. Common colors are gray, white, pink, and yellow-brown.
Granite
Toughness; the quality of having a thick skin or being rough.
Granite
A crystalline, granular rock, consisting of quartz, feldspar, and mica, and usually of a whitish, grayish, or flesh-red color. It differs from gneiss in not having the mica in planes, and therefore in being destitute of a schistose structure.
Granite
Plutonic igneous rock having visibly crystalline texture; generally composed of feldspar and mica and quartz
Granite
Something having the quality of granite (unyielding firmness);
A man of granite
FAQs
What is Corian primarily used for?
Corian is used for countertops, sinks, and architectural surfaces.
Can Corian be repaired if damaged?
Yes, Corian can often be repaired by sanding or buffing.
How durable is granite compared to other stones?
Granite is one of the most durable natural stones available.
Is Corian heat resistant?
Corian is not highly heat resistant and can be damaged by high temperatures.
Can granite withstand high temperatures?
Yes, granite is highly resistant to heat.
Can Corian mimic other materials?
Yes, Corian can be designed to mimic the look of stone, wood, and other materials.
Is granite a natural material?
Yes, granite is a natural igneous rock.
Are Corian surfaces seamless?
Yes, Corian can be fabricated to appear virtually seamless.
Is Corian a good choice for outdoor use?
Corian is not typically recommended for outdoor use as it can be affected by UV rays.
How often does granite need sealing?
Granite typically requires sealing once a year or less frequently.
Is Corian available in different colors?
Yes, Corian comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
Is granite environmentally friendly?
Granite is a natural product, but its quarrying and transportation have environmental impacts.
How is Corian installed?
Corian is professionally installed and often requires templating for precision.
Is Corian suitable for heavy-duty kitchen use?
Corian is suitable for kitchens but may scratch or damage with heavy use.
Is granite a sustainable material?
Granite is durable and long-lasting, but its sustainability depends on quarrying and transport practices.
Does granite offer many color options?
Granite color options are limited to those found naturally.
Can I cut directly on granite surfaces?
While granite is scratch-resistant, cutting directly on it is not recommended.
Are there any health concerns with Corian?
Corian is non-toxic and non-porous, making it hygienic and safe for food contact.
Is granite resistant to staining?
Granite is relatively resistant to staining, especially when sealed.
How do I clean granite countertops?
Clean granite with mild detergent and water; avoid acidic cleaners.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
