Over time even the most durable Corian sink can show signs of wear. Luckily there‘s an affordable solution to make it look brand new again – professional refinishing. As your go-to expert for all things home renovation, let me walk you through everything you need to know about renewing a worn Corian sink.
What Exactly is Corian?
Corian is a solid surface material made by DuPont that has been popular in kitchen and bath design since its invention in 1967. But what makes up this unique acrylic-based material?
Corian‘s main ingredients include:
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Acrylic polymer – Makes up about two-thirds of Corian. Provides durability and flexibility.
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Alumina trihydrate – Derived from bauxite ore, this mineral comprises about one-third of the material. Enhances Corian‘s hardness and stain resistance.
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Pigments – Added in various colors and patterns. Even solid colors contain pigments for an enhanced look.
Corian starts as a liquid that is thermoset – essentially baked at high temperatures – into a solid, non-porous slab. It can be fabricated into seamless countertops and sinks using specialized cutting and heating tools.
Compared to natural stone surfaces, the benefits of Corian include:
- Seamless appearance
- High resistance to stains
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Long-lasting durability
- Availability in a wide range of colors/patterns
The drawbacks include a lower heat tolerance than natural stone and the need for careful cleaning methods to avoid damaging the material.
By the Numbers: Corian Sink and Countertop Costs
As a pricier material, it helps to understand the cost factors for Corian:
Corian Sink Cost
- Undermount single basin – $300-$800
- Double basin – $500-$1200
- Farmhouse/apron front – $700-$1500
Corian Countertop Costs
- Material per sq. ft. – $55-$150
- Professional installation – $40-$100 per sq. ft.
- Average kitchen (35 sq. ft.) – $3000-$7000
Compare that to other top options:
| Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| Granite | $50-$100 |
| Quartz | $80-$150 |
| Laminate (basic) | $10-$30 |
So while pricier than options like laminate, Corian performs more closely to premium materials like quartz or granite. The ability to repair and refinish it is a notable advantage.
Trust the Pros for Refinishing
While DIY refinishing is tempting, turning your worn sink over to professionals is highly recommended. Special skills and tools are needed to properly sand and resurface Corian without causing permanent damage.
According to HomeAdvisor.com, DIY solid surface refinishing results in a professional repair call 75% of the time due to damage or improper techniques.
Problems caused by DIY refinishing attempts include:
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Permanent scratches from incorrect sanding methods
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Discoloration when sealants interact poorly with cleaning products
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Degradation of sink edges leading to mold growth
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Pitting damage from using abrasive scrubbers
I always advise homeowners to turn to qualified solid surface restoration experts. Their experience with the intricacies of Corian is invaluable.
Step-by-Step: Refinishing Process Explained
Refinishing Corian requires several steps. Here‘s what you can expect from start to finish:
Surface Preparation
1. Clean thoroughly – All dirt, debris, residue and buildup is removed using abrasive pads and degreasing cleaners applied with a stone polisher.
2. Protect surroundings – Countertops and walls are covered with plastic sheeting and blue tape. Sink hardware is removed and cabinet spaces covered.
3. Sand away scratches – Using 60-80 grit foam sanding pads on a variable speed polisher, light scratches are sanded away. The sink is rinsed thoroughly between sanding steps.
Damage Repair
1. Fill any cracks/chips – Small voids are filled with two-part epoxy filler tinted to match the Corian color. Filler is allowed to fully cure before sanding flush.
2. Smooth down repairs – Once hardened, the epoxy filler is sanded flush with the surrounding surface using 100-220 grit foam sanding pads.
Sealing & Protecting
1. Remove all dust – Every speck of sanded dust and debris must be eliminated before sealing, so a thorough cleaning is done using denatured alcohol.
2. Apply sealant – A Crystic®-brand polyester primer coat is rolled on using a high density foam roller. Multiple thin coats are applied.
3. Sand between coats – The primer is lightly abraded with 320-400 grit foam pads to improve adhesion between layers.
4. Build protective layers – Up to three coats of an acrylic urethane topcoat are added for maximum stain protection and sheen.
5. Cure completely – The refinished sink is allowed to cure fully for 72 hours before use.
Finishing Touches
1. Smooth surface – Once cured, any bumps or roughness in the new coating are smoothed out using 400 grit foam sanding pads.
2. Shine and polish – The sink receives a final buffing using a power polisher with a lambswool pad. This brings the finish to a glassy shine.
3. Replace fittings – Any sink hardware, baskets, and accessories previously removed are replaced and secured.
An Eco-Friendly Refinishing Option
For homeowners looking for a more eco-friendly refinishing process, many pros now use sealants and coatings with low VOC (volatile organic compound) levels.
Brands like Envirotex Lite® contain fewer solvents and off-gas minimal odor during curing compared to standard polyurethanes and epoxies. This reduces the environmental and indoor air quality impact.
While costing slightly more, low-VOC options provide peace of mind along with their protective qualities. Just be sure to confirm your refinisher offers these green sealant choices before hiring.
Factors That Influence Refinishing Costs
Several factors determine the investment for refinishing a Corian sink. These include:
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Size of sink – Larger sinks mean more coating materials used and added labor time.
- Single basin – $300-$800
- Double basin – $400-$1000
- Farmhouse style – $500-$1200
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Location – Refinishing costs more in areas with higher labor rates. New York City vs. Oklahoma City, for example.
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Damage level – Severely damaged sinks require extensive repairs and extra coating to hide imperfections.
- Light scratches – $300-$500
- Heavy scratches – $400-$800
- Chips and cracks – $500-$1000
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Coating options – Specialty low-VOC or designer finish coatings add cost over standard options. Expect a 10-15% premium.
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Accessibility – Tight spaces requiring sink removal add labor fees. Easily accessed sinks cost less.
I recommend getting 2-3 quotes before hiring a pro. This allows you to budget accordingly.
How Long Will Refinishing Last?
When properly cared for, a professional Corian sink refinishing can last 3-5 years or longer before needing another facelift.
The key is maintaining the protective sealants with proper cleaning methods. Avoiding abrasives and re-sealing annually will maximize durability.
With regular TLC, there‘s no reason a refinished Corian sink can‘t look and function like new for many more years before a redo is needed. Much longer than a DIY job typically lasts!
Caring for a Refinished Sink
To keep your renewed sink looking its best:
- Use non-abrasive cleaners free of bleach or ammonia
- Avoid scouring pads, steel wool, and abrasive scrub brushes
- Rinse thoroughly after washing to remove residues
- Wipe spills quickly, especially juices, wines and oils
- Re-seal annually using a Corian-approved sealer
- Avoid exposing to extreme hot or cold temperatures
- Use a cutting board rather than cutting directly on the sink
I highly recommend Method® brand cleaners and Corian® Deep Cleaner for routine maintenance. Be sure to read all product instructions carefully before use.
Time for a Corian Sink Facelift?
Notice these signs your sink could benefit from professional refinishing:
- Dull, worn looking surface
- Light scratches that won‘t buff out
- Permanent stains and etchings
- Hairline cracks starting to form
- Areas that feel rough, not smooth
Refinish at the first hints of wear for best results. Heavily etched or cracked sinks can be difficult to restore fully.
While an investment, refinishing returns your Corian sink to like-new condition at a fraction of replacement cost. In as little as 1-2 days, your outdated sink will look factory-fresh again!
I hope this guide gives you confidence in the refinishing process. Please reach out with any other home improvement questions!
