There is a difference in the various brands of Solid Surfacing Materials. The biggest difference is in their respective chemical make-ups. Corian, Staron (and possibly some others) are basically an acrylic product. Avonite, on the other hand has some acrylic surfaces (the "Foundation" groups) while some others are a polyester product (the "Studio" groups). None of them are technically designed for outdoor use, however the acrylic products (Corian, Staron and some Avonite) hold up much better than the others when subjected to the elements.
Solid Surface materials are safe, smooth, nonporous, easy to clean and require no sealing. They are commonly used on kitchen and bathroom countertops. This is a wonderful choice for many types of signs. One of the most common uses is for unit numbers and directories in Offices, Hotels and Apartment Complexes.
A mind-boggling array of colors is produced to satisfy a wide range of design options. Some are solid colors, others are translucent and some mimic natural stone.
NOTE: Although Corian is probably the best-known brand, at this time we would have to say that Staron has the most eye-popping colors. They have some new colors in their "Tempest" collection which have large, clear chips that really give the material depth.
Here's a link to Dupont's Corian page. On this page off to the right and down a little (under "Shopping Tools") you'll see a link that says "Color Selector". Click on that link and a pop-up window will give you a good, large view of all the Corian colors.
Here's a link to Samsung's Staron Solid Surface Material. This link takes you to the page showing all their color catagories. Unfortunately, the last time we checked, they did not have samples of their newest (and most amazing) colors in the "Tempest" collection.
Here's a link to Avonite's Solid Surface Material. This link takes you to the page showing all their color catagories. The "Studio" groups are Polyester-Based whereas the "Foundation" groups are Acrylic-Based.
Elegance: A properly made Corian or Staron sign is in a class of its own. 3-D engraving is an obvious choice, but also consider inlays. Imagine a satin or brushed aluminum piece inlayed into Corian. Or how about contrasting colors inlaid into each other.
Variety of colors and patterns. The patterns include Granite-Like with either small speckles or larger granules and Marble-Like with ribbons of color.
Disadvantages
Cost: This is pretty pricey stuff. That said, sometimes it is the only truly "right" material. We have replaced all the signs in apartment complexes with Corian or Staron, even the Stop signs!
Finishing and Installation: The dark colors need to be clear-coated to look their best. Of course, at that point you have to worry about the longevity of the clear finish. For exterior signs we try to steer our customers toward the lighter colors, which look fine without any clear coat.
As far as installation goes, it is no problem as long as the sign is an interior application. Even Exterior applications are OK if the sign is not large. However, if you are installing a large Corian or Staron sign outdoors, you should use a system that allows the sign to "Float". In other words, do not attach it rigidly to the wall. This material will expand and contract some with temperature changes. If it has been attached rigidly, it could crack.
Examples
(To see some examples of Corian and Staron signs, click on a photo below.)
