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Corian vs. Cambria: Picking the Right Countertop

Countertops

Homeowners interested in designing a sustainable kitchen are typically torn between two eco-friendly countertop options: Corian and Cambria. Both are considered "green" and are given certification points by National Green Building Certification programs. Both offer a wide range of color and pattern choices and are considered ultra-hygienic due to their non-porous surfaces.

corian countertop canterbury

Before we get into direct comparisons, let's talk a little about each product.

Corian

Corian countertops are manufactured by DuPont. In fact, they have been made for almost fifty years. Corian is manufactured by combining natural minerals and binding resins to create a non-porous and very durable countertop surface. There are now 110 color and patterns to choose from and Corian is highly customizable, often used to create  matching or complementary sinks and cutting boards in addition to the countertop.

Cambria

Cambria countertops are made from quartz, which is one of the hardest and most prolific minerals on the planet. These quarts pieces, often combined with other pre- and post-consumer products, are blended with resins to yield beautiful, non-porous countertops. They often mimic the look of natural stone due to the quartz content, plus they offer pattern consistency - something natural stones do not There are 120 different options available.

Download our FREE chart to compare the benefits of laminate, solid surface,  quartz and granite countertops at a glance.

So, which one is right for your kitchen countertop?

Corian vs. Cambria: The Showdown

When it comes down to it, the decision between Corian and Cambria countertops may simply be a personal aesthetic preference. They are neck-and-neck in almost any given category.

Here are some of the areas where we feel they are identical:

  • Hardness: Both surfaces are incredibly hard and very chip and crack-resistant.
  • Hygienic: Non-porous surfaces leave no room for dirt, grime, mold or bacteria to accumulate or infiltrate the interior of the countertop.
  • Stain Resistance. Similarly, that lack of pores means that even the toughest of liquids - even red wine and marinara sauce - can be wiped up without leaving a trace.

Here are some of the areas where they differ:

  • Seamless Appearance:If a seamless look is important to you, Corian takes the top spot. When the pieces are installed, a color-matching epoxy is used to seal joints so there is hardly a seam in sight. Cambria, on the other hand, is installed more like natural stone slabs so there is mild seam visibility.
  • Durability: Here, first prize goes to Cambria; quartz is hard, and it's almost impossible to scratch, chip or crack this product. That being said, Corian is pretty tough too, so it's a close second.
  • Repairability: Corian surfaces can be scratched but they are also easy to buff out to make them look like new. If your Cambria surface is damaged, it will be harder to repair or cover up.
  • Heat Resistance: Cambria countertops can handle hot pots being transferred directly from the stove or oven to the countertop. While Corian handles high heat (up to 212°F), it can be damaged by excess heat or direct flame.
  • The Elegance Factor. Cambria Quartz is gorgeous. If you loved the idea of Granite slab but not the ecological and less-desirable aspects that come along with it, we bet you'll love the high-end and elegant aesthetic of Cambria quartz countertops.

Visit a Kitchen Magic Showroom to learn more about these popular, eco-friendly countertop options so you can pick the right one for your kitchen remodel.

Kitchen Countertop Comparison Chart

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