Note from natural-stone.com
The fact that Corian tries to achieve the look of granite speaks volumes as to which product is more beautiful. Granite will never be sold because it has a look that is very similar to a plastic-looking Corian color! For pure aesthetic beauty, Corian does not come close to the richness, the depth, the polish, the power and the naturally organic quality that is granite. The beauty of granite will always sell itself.
Did you know that a higher grade Corian is comparable in cost to
a mid-range Granite? Visit our showroom and see for yourself! |
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Laminates
The typical laminate countertop material is known as Formica.
It is made of a thin layer of plastic (1/32" or 1/16")
that is glued to particleboard or wood and can simulate
many different materials, including granite. The edge of
the countertop can be square or rolled. Wood, brass and
other inserts can also be added.
Advantages
- Inexpensive and fairly durable
- Available in endless
patterns and colors
- Resists staining
- Easy to clean
Disadvantages
- Abrasive cleaners can scratch and dull the finish
- Sharp
knives will produce scratches and hot pots will melt
the finish
- Warping of the surface can occur with prolonged wetting
or flooding
- Laminates usually cannot be repaired once
damaged
- Seams are easy to see
Some materials will fade with time
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Acrylic and/or Polyester Plastics (Corian, Etc.)
Unlike laminates, acrylic and/or polyester plastics are
homogenous throughout the material. Available in thickness
of 1/2" and
3/4", these materials come in numerous colors. They
can be polished but are often seen with a matte finish.
They can be expensive and in many cases, more expensive
than granite (hint!)
Advantages
- Non-porous and stain resistant
- Abrasive cleaners can
be used on unpolished finishes
- Easy
to clean and refinish
- Many colors available
- Seamless
- Scratches can be repaired
Disadvantages
- Scratches easily
- Hot Pots will melt finish
- More Expensive
- Plastic unnatural appearance
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Wood (Butcher Block)
Wood countertops have often been used to give a natural warm
appearance. Most wood countertops are made with hardwoods
glued together into strips. Butcher block is constructed
this way with rock maple or beech.
Advantages
- Durable if cared for
- Cleans easily
- Scratches can be removed by sanding
Disadvantages
- Can Warp
- Turns black if exposed to large quantities
of water
- Requires
sealing
- More Expensive
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Tile
Tile countertops are typically made with ceramic tile ranging
in size from one square inch to as large as six square
inches. There are also other shapes, such as octagonal,
rectangular, etc. Tile countertops are popular in country-style
kitchens and are durable materials. However, all tile has
grout lines, which can cause problems. Grout soils very
easily and will require frequent cleaning.
Advantages
- Durable
- Non-staining and will not scratch
- Endless colors, shapes
and designs.
- Heat resistant
Disadvantages
- Chips easily
- Grout can be a problem
- Slightly more expensive than laminates.
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Granite
Granite is an excellent choice for countertops. Granite is
available in polished and matte finishes. While granite
may be more expensive than some other materials, its longevity
adds immeasurable value.
Advantages
- Scratch resistant
- Hot plates can be placed directly on
the surface.
- Durable
- Natural product
- Wide selection of colors
- Beauty, beauty, beauty
Disadvantages
- Requires proper sealing to prevent staining
- More Expensive
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