Avonite Vs Corian: Which Countertop Material To Choose?

When it comes to kitchen renovations, choosing the right countertop material is crucial.

You’ve probably heard about two brands that manufacture some of the best countertop materials: Avonite and Corian. If you’re unsure which to choose, don’t worry—we’ve researched both to help you decide.

Choosing between Avonite and Corian will depend on your preference. Avonite is made from acrylic, while Corian consists of 2/3 natural minerals and 1/3 acrylic resin.

Although both materials are durable and homogeneous, Avonite is recyclable, while Corian is made from renewable materials.

There are still many factors to consider when choosing the best material for your kitchen countertop. We will take a closer look at Avonite and Corian to help you decide, so keep reading to learn more!

Avonite Vs. Corian: Which Countertop Material To Choose?

Kitchen countertops can be expensive, so if you want to avoid frequent countertop renovations, you should look for the best material that will last.

Solid surface materials are considered cheaper than traditional countertop materials such as granite and ceramic. They are non-porous, have the same materials from top to bottom, and can easily be repaired.

It’s a good thing two pioneering brands produce solid surface materials that could suit your needs: Avonite and Corian.

If you feel torn between Avonite and Corian, it’s not surprising. We will go over some good-to-know details about each brand, their advantages, and their disadvantages so you can weigh your options and pick the right one.

What Is Avonite?

When it comes to solid surface countertops, Avonite is one of the pioneering brands that produce durable yet easy-to-maintain materials. 

It comes in different colors and designs, giving you the freedom to style your kitchen without compromising your budget or the quality of the materials.

Of course, there are still many aspects to consider other than the material’s visual benefits, so let’s examine some of the advantages and disadvantages of using Avonite.

Advantages of Using Avonite

The first thing you should look for when choosing the right countertop material is its benefits. Avonite has several advantages, and we’ve listed them to help you decide.

Environment-Friendly

Avonite is a recyclable countertop material. It is a sustainable and environment-friendly option. Some companies use up to 40% recycled materials when making Avonite.

Homogeneous

Since Avonite is made with the same material from top to bottom, it doesn’t have areas that are hard to sand. Its components allow you to make cuts without worrying about uneven parts, as you would with granite. 

Has A Variety Of Colors

One thing you will love about Avonite is that it comes in different colors, designs, and textures that match your kitchen’s overall theme. Avonite is also known for being a translucent material. 

Easy To Maintain

Avonite is designed to be flexible and easy to repair. It does not promote the growth of mold and bacteria. 

Avonite is scratch-resistant, making it one of the easiest kitchen materials to maintain. It is also heat-resistant, so it can withstand high temperatures in the kitchen.

Disadvantages of Using Avonite

Every material has a downside, and Avonite is no exception. Let’s tackle its disadvantages so you can decide if Avonite is truly the right material for you.

Expands When Exposed To Too Much Heat

Despite being heat-resistant, placing a hot pot directly on an Avonite countertop can cause damage. The area in contact with the heat expands suddenly, making it prone to cracks.

Solid surface countertops such as Avonite can only withstand up to 320 degrees Fahrenheit.

Expensive

Although it’s different from traditional countertop materials, Avonite’s cost per square foot is nearly similar to that of more durable and expensive options.

Its basic cost ranges from $45.90 to $48.40 and can increase depending on your location.

Can Stain

Although Avonite is relatively durable, it is still made of acrylic, which is prone to stains.

When materials with a stain come in direct contact with Avonite countertops, they may leave a blemish that can’t be easily removed.

What Is Corian?

Corian is another brand in the solid surface category. It was one of the first to introduce solid surface countertops to the market. 

Initially made by DuPont in 1967, it is a man-made material that is consists of 2/3 natural minerals and 1/3 acrylic resin. 

Just like Avonite, it comes in different colors and designs. However, there’s more to Corian than meets the eye, and we’ll discuss the pros and cons of using Corian on your kitchen countertops.

Advantages Of Using Corian

Every material has benefits, and Corian has plenty to brag about. Let’s take a look at the advantage of using Corian.

Does Not Require Sealing

Unlike other countertop materials, such as granite, Corian can be installed without the need for sealing.

Seamless And Can Be Sanded

Its seams are also nearly invisible, and you can sand the edges. It will not chip or flake when sanded, making it easy to work with.

Easy To Maintain

Corian countertops generally do not absorb stains and moisture. With proper care, they will resist the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria.

They’re easy to clean with soap and water and do not require any specific cleaning materials.

Disadvantages Of Using Corian

Just like Avonite, Corian has its fair share of disadvantages, too. We’ve listed some of them here.

Easily Reacts To Chemicals

When it comes in contact with strong chemical solutions, Corian may suffer damage. It may become brittle or discolored, causing you to spend some money for repairs.

You should keep any materials or solutions with a high acid content, ink, and even shoe polish from away from your Corian countertop.

Can Be Dented And Scratched

Unlike traditional countertop materials such as granite, Corian is prone to scratches and dents. Although it is considered a solid surface, its surface is still softer than natural stone.

Corian can be damaged by sharp materials such as knives. However, it is easier to repair than other countertop materials.

Cannot Withstand High Temperatures

Similar to Avonite, Corian cannot resist high heat. The areas that come in contact with hot materials will burn and expand. Although it is a durable material, Corian is not ideal for high heat.

Can You Use Avonite Or Corian For Your Backsplash?

The answer is yes. Avonite and Corian are solid surface materials that can be molded to fit your needs.

If you are planning to use a solid surface material for your backsplash, just keep in mind that it cannot withstand high temperatures as well as granite and ceramic.

On the other hand, a solid surface material does not need sealing, making it less prone to mold and bacteria buildup, unlike other materials on the market that need to be sealed.

Also, it is one of the best materials to use as a backsplash since it is easy to clean. If you use a solid surface material for your backsplash, the recommended thickness is 1/4 inch.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose Avonite or Corian, the choice is yours.

Just remember to consider each brand’s advantages and disadvantages so that you can obtain the best kitchen countertop material to suit your taste.

Before you go, check out these related posts too:

Can You Use Floor Tile For Kitchen Countertops Or Backsplash?

How To Fill A Gap Between Countertops And Wall