KingKonree(KKR Solid Surface) vs Corian, What're the Differences?

Solid surface, alternately known as Corian, is a versatile man-made material used in countertops, sinks, and other seamless surface production. Corian is a brand formed in 1967 by DuPont, the pioneers of solid surface manufacturing. However, with time, there was a surge of other brands competing against Corian after its patent license expired. KingKonree KKR has emerged as one of the leading brands in acrylic and quartz material products.

KingKonree KKR and Corian produce exceptional-quality solid surfaces that are durable and versatile.KKR Solid Surface boasts 800+ customers and 2000+ completed projects, while Corian enjoys its position as a pioneer. Marriott and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group lean towards KKR for their countertops, interior designs, food tables, and public areas. In comparison, Starbucks and Galeries Lafayette chose Corian for solid surface material.

Each brand has strong positive customer feedback. Considering the high-end quality of both brands, this article aims to provide information about the differences between KingKonree KKR  and Corian brands so that you can make a well-informed decision about which one to pick for your project.

Crafting Excellence: Introduction to KingKonree (KKR) and Corian

KKR Solid Surface and Corian have excellent reputations owing to their well-established technologies. To better understand how they are market leaders, we will explore their product lineups and dive deeper into their craft. Let's start with an introduction to the driving forces of solid surface material and sanitary ware.

★ KingKonree (KKR): Transforming Interiors with Innovation

Kingkonree (KKR) has 24+ years of professional experience making Sanitaryware, Solid Surface Countertops, and sheets. Their products are distributed globally in 107 countries, showcasing their supply chain network, professionalism, and design versatility. KKR has a research and development department that continually works to produce multi-functional and elegant above-counter basins, mirror frames, bathtubs, shower trays, kitchen worktops, faucets, leisure stools, and bathroom accessories.

KingKonree (KKR) can produce a non-porous surface with a tolerance of 0.5mm. Their finished products have zero polishing marks and no cracks. The surface finish makes the product hygienic for sanitary use, as there is no space on the surface for bacterial growth. They are the industry's leading manufacturer and boast of anti-yellowing technology. Their product line-up includes:

All KingKonree products comply with the CE (Conformité Européenne), SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance), UV (Ultraviolet), and CUPC (Uniform Plumbing Code). These certifications and compliances enabled KKR to export products to the highly competitive US market in 2018. The same year, KKR achieved a significant milestone with a 40% turnover in the US market. This shows their market-competitive prices and quality that resonate with customers and meet stringent international compliances.

★ Corian: Pioneering Solid Surface

Donald Slocum, a DuPont chemist, invented Corian in 1967. DuPont established the brand Corian, which introduced solid surfaces to the market in 1971. Owing to its symmetrical aesthetics and properties, Corian instantly became a hit. Before marketing, DuPont patented the solid surface material in October 1968, which gave DuPont exclusive rights to produce and sell Corian. The patent lasted for 20 years before it expired. 

Currently, Corian Solid Surface produces hygienic, non-porous, repairable, bendable, sustainable, and smooth-to-touch surfaces for various applications. Corian is still expanding its product range from solid surface material.

Corian is also introducing Quartz surfaces in its lineup under a separate category. Their Quartzites, with their omnidirectional veins, provide a sophisticated look. An elegant neutral range revives the feeling of Mozaic but with much more durability and repairability. The iconic stone range looks like the Calacatta Medallion with its elegant veins of gold and gray.

Corian market share was USD 208 million in 2023 and is expected to reach 360 million by the end of 2036 with a 4.3% CAGR. The brand's growth is directly entangled with the construction industry.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Kingkonree (KKR) and Corian

As we discussed earlier, both brands enjoy exceptional reputations in the market. However, their product lineup, use of materials, and manufacturing technology make them unique and different. In this section, we will compare the various aspects of both brands to see which one takes the lead.

❖ Material Selection

• KingKonree (KKR)

- It uses Isophthalic resin, also known as isophthalic polyester resin, and DSM, which is relatively more expensive. The material provides a tighter chemical structure, which results in better UV protection.

- Llewellyn Ryland color pastes provide stable colors and resistance against fading or yellowing.

- They use 100% high-quality polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in their products, and some products feature its variation with minerals.

• Corian

- It uses 1/3 acrylic resin (polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA) and 2/3 natural minerals (alumina trihydrate and more).

- Sustainable low-VOC material free from dangerous chemicals.

- Renewable and restorable material with an experienced fabricator.

❖ Product Versatility

In this case, we can see that KingKonree (KKR) has a broader range of products and uses advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure quality across the board. Corian, on the other hand, produces art objects and furniture.

❖ Manufacturing Techniques

▪ Kingkonree (KKR)

- Each solid surface product undergoes the 4-hour bake process at 180 degrees. This process enhances durability, chemical resistance, stability, and reduced warping.

- UV testing on batches to accelerate the aging process and compare results.

- Use 1000+ molds for bathtubs and sinks, covering 80% of market design demand.

- Casting and demolding with well-trained, skillful workers and 100% automated machine process. Shaping process to ensure straight edges and smooth curves.

- The trimming process uses visual observation and CNC machines. It is followed by the sanding process, which changes from matt to glossy based on customer demand.

- Quality control with strict compliance to the 0.5mm tolerance.

▪ Corian

- The process starts with using a homogeneous blend of acrylics and minerals based on demand.

- After passing the solution into the mold, air bubbles are removed thoroughly during the casting process. It may involve using a vacuum to ensure a solid surface without discontinuities.

- Use of reaction tunnel to maintain mold at a specific temperature.

- Polishing and grinding process to finish the product.

❖ Certification, Compliances, and Tests

▪ KingKonree (KKR)

- Certified by ISO9001:2015, strong quality management system (QMS)

- CE (Conformité Européenne) is essential for selling products in the European Economic Area (EEA)

- GMC (General Medical Council) in the UK certification ensures strict compliance of products for use as medical devices.

- SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance) certifies management systems, such as ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), and ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety). These systems include chemical, physical, and microbiological testing.

- CUPC (Uniform Plumbing Code) is a California Plumbing Code that ensures compliance with local regulations.

▪ Corian

- Low-volatile organic compound (VOC)

- ASTM D-5116 (Small Scale Environmental Chamber Determination of Organic Emissions from Indoor Materials and Products)

- Specification Section 01350 and California’s Collaborative for High-Performance Schools (CHPS)

- NSF/ANSI Standard 51 “Food Equipment Material”

- GREENGUARD certification for low chemical emissions

- UL 2824 certification for microbial resistance

Reasons That Make Kingkonree (KKR) The Best Alternative To Corian

When it comes to picking the right brand, we need to consider many factors. Being a pioneer in a field and owning a patent helps retain market dominance. However, when competition jumps in, many factors, such as manufacturing capability, certifications, product versatility, rigorous testing methods, and more, come into play.

KingKonree (KKR) is a significant player in acrylic or quartz-based products. It is an excellent alternative to the Corian brand and has a 15,000 m² factory coverage. It has a well-established loyal customer base that trusts its commitment to quality. Here are the top reasons to consider KingKonree (KKR) as your acrylic and quartz-based products:

1. Extensive Product Range

2. Strict Quality Management Systems

3. Advance Manufacturing Process

4. Ideal Price/Performance Ratio

5. Long Lasting Color and UV Protection

6. Rigorous Testing Methods

7. Strong Market Presence in West and East Alike

8. Comprehensive and Loyal Customer Support

FAQs

1. Does KingKonree only produce solid surface products?

KKR Solid Surface (Kingkonree) produces various products that utilize the base acrylic material mixed with minerals. Their product lineup includes various solid surface products, such as bathtubs, basins, shower trays, kitchen products, decorative items, and faucets. Despite such a wide range, their products comply with international standards for quality.

2. Is Corian a brand, material, or a product?

Corian was a product made by a scientist working at DuPont in 1967. DuPont named the product Corian and patented its design, which lasted 20 years. DuPont also established a brand named Corian. Users may use Corian interchangeably with Solid Surface sheets. However, brands like KingKonree (KKR), Formica Solid Surface, and Lotte Staron now produce solid surface material.

3. What are the key features of KingKonree KKR products?

KKR Solid Surface uses top-tier materials to manufacture its products. Regardless of the procurement price of these raw materials, they use them for durability, longevity, and finish. Isophthalic Resin, DSM, 100% High-Quality PMMA, and LR Pigment from the UK are some of KingKonree KKR's significant materials for exceptional performance against UV, bacterial growth, and aged yellowness.