Corian RV Countertops: Pros & Cons of Solid Surface

Corian RV countertops are commonly chosen for use in many RVs because they offer a blend of style, durability, and functionality. But, what exactly is Corian and what are the advantages and disadvantages of Corian in an RV? Are there other types of solid surface countertops used in RVs?

In this post, we’re taking a look at Corian, including the pros and cons of having Corian countertops in an RV.

What Are Corian RV Countertops?

Corian is DuPont’s brand name for solid surface countertops. Dupont originated the product, and now there are many other competing brands and manufacturers.

The word “Corian” is often used to refer to many different brands of solid-surface countertops. It’s similar to how all adhesive bandages are “Band-Aids,” any tissue might be called a “Kleenex,” and all cotton swabs are known as “Q-Tips” even though those are all brand names.

“Corian” has become the de facto term for solid surface countertops, even though not all solid surface countertops are Corian brand.

Corian and other solid-surface countertops offer a nice upgrade from the Formica/laminate countertops that once dominated the kitchen countertop market. But like anything else, Corian (and other solid surface materials) have pros and cons.

What Are the Advantages of Corian RV Countertops?

Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of Corian counter tops in an RV.

Aesthetic Appeal

Corian countertops are known for their sleek, modern, seamless appearance. They come in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns to match the decor of any RV’s interior, from classic to contemporary to avant-garde.

Seamless Integration

The lack of visible seams is one of the features of RV solid surface countertops that makes them such an attractive option. Corian countertops can be seamlessly integrated into an RV’s kitchen or bathroom, because it’s a manufactured material that can be designed in many different shapes, with curves and without seams. This contributes to a clean, polished, cohesive appearance.

Durability and Resistance to Staining

Corian and other solid-surface countertop materials can withstand most of the rigors of daily life on the road without showing much wear and tear. If Corian stains or discolors over time, it can be cleaned. And minor damage can often be repaired.

Because Corian is a solid material, it’s more resistant to scratches and stains than some other countertop materials. This doesn’t mean that Corian and other solid surface countertops can’t scratch or stain at all — they can. In fact, we wrote an entire post on how to clean a stained Corian sink, because light-colored solid surface materials can yellow and stain over time, especially white kitchen sinks.

Lighter Weight

Since weight is usually a consideration in an RV, a significant benefit of Corian and other solid surface materials is that they weigh less than natural stone surfaces such as granite. High-end diesel pushers may opt for granite since their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) can often handle it. Smaller rigs usually don’t usually have the luxury of including such heavy items.

Easy to Clean

Cleaning Corian countertops in your RV is easy because solid surface countertops are non-porous, so they don’t easily absorb spills. This makes them easy to wipe down with just a damp cloth.

As mentioned above, stains are possible. But they’re far less likely to quickly set in, making the low maintenance requirements of solid surface countertops great for RVers.

Customization

Corian countertops can be shaped and formed into nearly any configuration to fit an RV’s unique layout. This ability to customize makes solid-surface countertops a great choice for the often odd-shaped counter spaces that are common in RVs.

Our Newmar Mountain Aire came with Corian countertops in the kitchen and bathroom. We loved them and they held up very well for us during more than 18 years of full-time use.

In the bathroom, the sinks were molded seamlessly into the counters with no lip, making it easy to wipe down the counters and wipe water right into the sink. Having sinks molded into the counter is one of the design benefits of solid surface materials. (As you can see in the photo above, our Mountain Aire’s kitchen sinks are also made of Corian, but they’re under-mount style, rather than a single piece molded into the counters.)

What Are the Disadvantages of Corian RV Countertops?

Now, let’s take a look at a few drawbacks of Corian countertops in an RV.

Cost

One of the most significant drawbacks of Corian countertops is their price. Solid surface countertops are more expensive than some other RV countertop options. That’s one reason why more cost-effective alternatives, such as Formica, are used in many RVs.

Vulnerability to Heat

Corian isn’t as heat-resistant as some other countertop materials, such as granite. Placing hot pots or pans directly on a solid surface countertop can cause damage including discoloration or cracks. For this reason, it’s important to use a trivet or pot holder to protect Corian countertops from high heat.

That said, there are newer versions of solid surface countertops, such as Corian Endura, which are much more heat-resistant.

Vulnerability to Scratches

While Corian is generally very durable, it can still be susceptible to scratches or stains, particularly from sharp objects. The best ways to prevent scratches and marks on Corian countertops are to use a cutting board and to be careful with sharp knives. Should light scratching occur, it can usually be buffed out. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer of your brand of solid-surface RV countertop.

Weight

Yes, we know we mentioned the lighter-weight nature of Corian as an advantage above because solid surface countertop materials are lighter than natural stone, such as granite. However, Corian countertops are heavier than Formica and other laminated materials, so it’s only fair to point it out as a disadvantage from that perspective.

Corian is in the middle weightwise: heavier than Formica, but lighter than granite. If weight is a major factor in your rig, this will need to be taken into consideration during any remodeling project.

Is Corian a Good Choice for RV Countertops?

Corian and other brands of solid surface countertops are excellent choices for RV countertops. They offer style, durability, and seamless integration. However, they’re both heavier and more expensive than some other options and do require precautions, such as protection against high heat and sharp objects.

While Corian may not be the right choice for every RV owner, solid surface countertops are an excellent choice in terms of aesthetics, easy maintenance, and overall durability. We loved the Corian countertops in our Mountain Aire for over 18 years, and think they make the rig look great!

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