Solid surface wash troughs and solid surface hand wash stations offer a durable, hygienic and low-maintenance solution for high-traffic commercial washrooms. Corian and HIMACS are two popular solid surface materials used for bespoke wash troughs, vanity units, basins and baby changing facilities, giving specifiers a practical choice for modern washroom design.
What are Corian and HIMACS?
Solid surface materials are used all over the world for countertops, washbasins, wash troughs, hand wash stations and wall panelling. Made from acrylic polymer and alumina trihydrate, a mineral derived from bauxite ore, both Corian and HIMACS are acrylic solid surface materials. Their non-porous finish makes them ideal for hygienic, easy-clean commercial washroom products, including vanity tops, basins, backsplashes and solid surface wash troughs.
Corian vs HIMACS for Commercial Washrooms
Developed in 1967, Du Pont Corian was one of the pioneering materials of this type and was originally envisioned as a single-colour kitchen and bathroom material. Today, it is a versatile option for commercial washrooms because it can be thermoformed into 2D and 3D shapes, making it suitable for bespoke vanity tops, basins, solid surface wash troughs, hand wash stations and Baby Changing Stations.
It is non-toxic and non-allergenic, with low VOCs that support better indoor air quality where installed. A selection of colours containing a percentage of recycled material supports sustainability and offers an environmentally friendly option. Its smooth surface adapts to the climate of its environment, leaving it feeling soft and warm to the touch. It withstands daily wear and tear for many years, and scratches can be mended on the spot to return the surface to its original quality.
After the development of Corian, other companies introduced competing products. One such product is LX Hausys HIMACS, which is also an easily moulded, moisture-resistant material suited to kitchens and commercial washroom applications. For solid surface hand wash stations, wash troughs and vanity units, HIMACS offers similar practical benefits to Corian, while providing a wider variety of natural and organic-looking colours that make it a popular choice.
Although solid surface wash troughs, hand wash stations and vanity units are durable and long-lasting, both Corian and HIMACS can be susceptible to damage, particularly from excess heat. These materials are heat resistant up to 100°C, but prolonged exposure can cause issues. The material can also be scratched, with marks becoming more noticeable on darker colours. However, scratches can usually be sanded and polished out, helping restore the surface finish.
Bespoke Solid Surface Wash Troughs and Vanity Units
In 2025, we at Commercial Washrooms began on-site manufacture of tailored Corian and HIMACS solid surface wash troughs, basins, hand wash stations and vanity units. Thanks to the adaptability of solid surface materials and their ability to be thermoformed, we can offer bespoke wash troughs and vanities, from standard box troughs to combination units that include WC and basin combinations. We also offer solid surface wash troughs in our UltraFast range at standard sizes, helping support faster delivery times and urgent orders.
Our vanity tops are made from 12mm thick sheets of Corian or HIMACS, subject to colour preferences, and mounted onto a moisture-resistant MDF substrate. We offer solid surface vanity tops suitable for inset, countertop and semi-recessed basins, alongside our wash troughs. We also offer solid surface baby changing tables with optional basins and waste chutes, available with an optional underframe with front access panels in a variety of colours.
Whether you choose Corian or HIMACS, both materials offer durable, hygienic and attractive solutions for modern commercial washrooms. At Commercial Washrooms, we manufacture bespoke solid surface wash troughs, hand wash stations and vanity units to suit a wide range of projects. Explore our range below to find the most suitable solution for your washroom specification.
Corian versus HIMACS Frequently asked Questions
What is the difference between HIMACS and Corian?
HIMACS and Corian are both acrylic solid surface materials made using acrylic polymer and mineral filler. Both are non-porous, durable, hygienic and suitable for commercial washrooms. Corian has been established since 1967 and is highly versatile, while HIMACS offers similar practical benefits with a wide range of natural and organic-looking colours.
Are HIMACS and Corian suitable for commercial wash troughs?
Yes. Both HIMACS and Corian are suitable for commercial wash troughs, hand wash stations, vanity units, basins and Baby Changing Stations. Their non-porous surfaces make them hygienic and easy to maintain, while their durability and ability to be thermoformed make them suitable for high-traffic commercial washrooms
Which is better for commercial washrooms, HIMACS or Corian?
Both HIMACS and Corian offer durable, hygienic and attractive solutions for commercial washrooms. The best choice depends on the requirements of the project, including the preferred colour, design, dimensions and specification of the wash trough or vanity unit
Can HIMACS and Corian wash troughs be made to bespoke sizes?
Yes. Both HIMACS and Corian can be thermoformed and manufactured into bespoke shapes and sizes. Commercial Washrooms manufactures tailored solid surface wash troughs, basins, hand wash stations and vanity units to suit individual commercial washroom specifications
Are HIMACS and Corian wash troughs easy to repair?
Yes. Although both materials can be scratched or damaged, particularly through excessive heat, scratches can usually be sanded and polished out. This allows the surface finish of a HIMACS or Corian wash trough to be restored without necessarily replacing the entire unit.
Are HIMACS and Corian wash troughs hygienic?
Yes. HIMACS and Corian have non-porous solid surface finishes, which make them suitable for hygienic commercial washroom applications. Their smooth surfaces are also easy to clean and maintain, making them suitable for high-traffic environments.
