When you’re deciding on solid surface countertops, you may be surprised to see the wide variety of brands available.  Different companies offer their own unique solid surface styles, each with their own selection of colors, finishes and other options.  It can be a bit overwhelming for the first-time buyer, but each brand offers its own strengths and weaknesses.

DuPont Corian

Solid surfaces were invented by DuPont in 1967, and its Corian brand was, for many years, the only brand available, until their patent ran out and competitors can enter the market.  The original solid surface is still a very solid choice.  It comes in a wide variety of styles and colors, and is still the leading brand in the industry.  Corian is backed by one of the best warranties in the industry, and has a proven track record of durability—it’s still the gold standard among solid surface brands.

Wilsonart

Wilsonart is best known for its laminate countertops, but they’ve been involved in the solid surface industry for over a decade and make some fine options.  Their main selling point is their variety; Wilsonart offers more than 80 colors and patterns to choose from.  They used to have quality control issues, offering a “solid surface veneer” that cracked and shattered, but their current offerings are much better in quality and definitely worth considering.

Samsung Staron

When you think “Samsung”, you think televisions and mobile devices, not countertops.  However, Samsung’s Staron brand is one of the more attractive solid surfaces available on the market.  Their Tempest line of semi-translucent metallic finishes has them stand out from the pack; they’re not like any other brand on the market today.  Their more traditional offerings promise to give you Corian-style quality at cheaper prices.

Avonite

Avonite offers both polyester-based and acrylic-based solid surfaces, and pioneered a new technology allowing them to create incredibly long sheets of acrylics.  While you’re likely not in the market for a 300-foot kitchen counter, it goes to show you that they’re an innovative and established company.  With both the polyester and acrylic options, Avonite gives customers the widest range of budget choices, as polyester-based solid surfaces generally are cheaper than their acrylic-based counterparts.  That doesn’t mean they’re of lesser quality, however; polyester tends to stand up against harsh chemicals better and can achieve a higher polish.

Formica

Like Wilsonart, Formica is better known for its laminate countertops, to the point where “Formica” is often used as the generic term for laminate.  However, they’ve been transitioning into the world of solid surface, and have come out with some exciting colors and styles in recent years, and are a rapidly-growing name in the solid surface world.

There are many other brands available, with Hanex and LG HI-MACS getting their fair share of use, as well.  Ultimately, the choice for best surface to use will depend on your precise requirements.  An expert solid surface professional can help make sure you’re making the right choice for your home.