Corian is an engineered material made of acrylic resin and natural minerals. The result is a solid, non-porous surface material which is incredibly durable and high-quality.
Since it’s available in numerous hues and is resistant to fading and stains, this innovative and versatile material is often used at the cutting edge of design, both inside and outside the house, for furniture, cladding and lighting.Â
With its popularity, you must know the proper adhesives for bonding Corian and how to finish the material with appropriate abrasives.Â
Adhesives for Bonding Corian to Wood and Plywood:
Solid surface materials come in various thicknesses and are often bonded to a backing board such as MDF, chipboard or plywood for added strength and durability. This approach also helps to assemble unique designs, shapes and forms.Â
However, these materials are only as good as the glue that binds them to the substrate. For the best results, your adhesive must have the following properties:
- Provide a robust, long-lasting bond that’s also resistant to water and moisture.
- Allow the materials to expand and contract at different rates.
- Create an invisible seal for a seamless appearance between joints.Â
Adkwik supplies a range of adhesives that ensure acrylic solid surface products like Corian bond safely and securely to the backboard material.
Option 1: Contact Adhesive
For strong and instant bonds, use a fast-drying spray contact adhesive with good heat resistance, such as Tensorgrip L12. Its tacky pressure-sensitive properties make it ideal for thick substrate bonding, and its clear finish is helpful in applications where appearance and quick adhesion are necessary, such as in edge details or inlays.
Option 2: Hybrid Polymers
For particularly robust bonds, opt for cartridge-based hybrid polymers such as the Tytex Ultraclear MS Polymer adhesive sealant, Tytex 5-Minute Set Gel PU Adhesive or Tytex 30-Minute Set Gel PU Adhesive.Â
These formulas create an almost invisible bond and have good water and moisture resistance. They are also easy to apply and allow for positioning. Ensure you are equipped with a cartridge gun such as the Cox Wexford Skeleton Gun to apply the sealant precisely.
Option 3: Hotmelt Adhesive
For bonding or clamping blocks, a hotmelt adhesive such as Stickfast High Strength 12mm glue sticks is a great option. This choice of glue has a long open time and adheres excellently to most surfaces.
Abrasives for Sanding and Finishing Corian
To achieve the best possible results when sanding and polishing solid surfaces such as Corian, use a mix of abrasive discs in different grits. Â
Mirka abrasive discs are ideal for solid surface materials. Their exceptional cutting properties allow them to smooth quickly and efficiently. Plus, they are designed to be dust-free, eliminating potential hazards and reducing precious time spent on cleaning up.Â
To learn more about these products, view Mirka’s video about sanding solid surfaces here.Â
Mirka Abranet Ace Sanding Discs
Mirka’s 150MM Abranet Ace HD Sanding Discs (100/pk) are perfect for dust-free sanding. The abrasive discs give a superior cut and quick stock removal for levelling surfaces and removing imperfections. The powerful ceramic grain also helps to prolong the use of each disc.Â
Abranet Ace HD abrasive discs are available in grits between 40-80 to deliver your desired finish.
Mirka Abralon Discs
150mm Mirka Abralon Discs (20/pk) are another option for sanding in higher grits. Their unique coating has been developed to tackle smooth and profiled structures such as solid surfaces, high gloss paint or lacquers.Â
Mirka Abralon discs are available in grits 180-4000 and can be used wet or dry. Employ them in the last stages of sanding for a clean, uniform finish.Â
Stay Equipped with the Correct Adhesives and AbrasivesÂ
Solid surface materials must be treated with glues and abrasives that give a durable, high-quality finish. Investing in the correct products will also save time, allow you to move on to your next job with confidence and make cleaning up a breeze.Â
If you’re still unsure which products are appropriate for your work, please contact the Adkwik team. Leave a message on our online contact form or call 01223 412373, and we’ll gladly assist you.
Products mentioned in this article:
Tensorgrip L12 Contact Adhesive 22LTR
Tytex Ultraclear MS Polymer adhesive sealant
Tytex 5-Minute Set Gel PU Adhesive
Tytex 30-Minute Set Gel PU Adhesive
Stickfast High Strength 12mm glue stick