According to Bob Vila, solid-surface countertops like Corian can be professionally installed for $40 to $60 per square foot in 2010. Granite countertops continue to be one of the most desired types of countertops available despite their high price tag. Having granite countertops cut and installed by professional contractors can cost between $50 and $100 per square foot, according to Bob Vila.
There remain several factors that contribute to the overall price tag on an installation project involving both Corian and granite countertops. Thickness is a critical factor in determining cost per square foot of either type of countertop, especially granite. Tiles that are 3/8-inch thick can be purchased at many home improvement stores for as little as $4 per square foot. Multiple edge styles are available for both types of countertops; some are linked with higher price tags.
The benefits offered by granite countertops undoubtedly contribute to justifying its price tag. Granite countertops offer exceptional resistance to heat, freezing, wear and corrosion, according to Natural Stone. Also, granite countertops are some of the hardest and most durable types of countertop on the market and can last for a lifetime if properly maintained. The benefits of solid-surface countertops do not stand out when compared against the superior granite countertop.
Solid-surface countertops such as Corian can blemish easily, according to Countertops Key. Consumers should never cut foods directly on the surface of solid-surface countertops. Pots and pans that have been heated to excessive temperatures should not come in direct contact with a solid-surface countertop because it can melt under the heat and pressure, according to Natural Stone. Damage to solid-surface countertops can be rather costly to repair. Granite countertops, on the other hand, do not damage easily. Excessive force may crack a granite countertop, however. Repairing a cracked granite countertop can be extremely costly--if not impossible in some cases.
Most companies charge consumers several hundred if not thousands of dollars in installation costs. Since granite countertops can weigh several hundred pounds, granite countertops should be installed by professional contractors. This decreases the risk of injury during their installation. Solid-surface countertops do not weigh nearly as much as granite countertops, but it is still recommended that installation be left to the professionals.