Soapstone is a unique stone, similar to rock, that is quarried. It’s made generally out of mineral powder, which makes it very delicate.
Yet, soapstone utilized for countertops regularly has higher rates of quartz in it, which makes it harder and progressively appropriate as a kitchen surface.
Soapstone is a natural stone material that has been used for a considerable length of time in countertops. Its smooth appearance gives it a provincial vibe when contrasted with the refined and rich look of granite.
Numerous homeowners love the usual charm of soapstone. This article will give you an in-depth comprehension of what this material is as well as the pros and cons of soapstone countertops.
Is it right to say that you are pondering on redesigning your kitchen? Are you researching countertop materials?
Assuming this is the case, and then our countertop spotlight will support you.
Types of Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is divided into two major types:
- High powder (imaginative/artistic type)
- Low powder (structural/architectural grade)
These two kinds are segregated by powder content.
When introducing soapstone countertops in your home, ensure you utilize structural evaluation soapstone, which is more significantly harder and progressively reasonable for countertop use.
Pros of Soapstone Countertops
Smooth, lovely soapstone doesn’t require a sealant to safeguard its great looks. Its untraversable surface lessens the danger of bacterial development, steadily or more in a kitchen or shower.
Frequently used in the construction of chimneys, soapstone is among the most warmth heat-proof stone accessible, so setting a hot dish on the countertop won’t scratch the surface.
Soapstone will darken after some time due to oxidation, so it will, in the long run, build up a distinct patina that a few homeowners discover attractive and others don’t.
The fundamental drawback to soapstone is its tendency to scratch or chip under substantial wear.
Incidentally dropping a cast-iron skillet on the counter could bring about a chip, and slicing vegetables on its surface would leave blade marks.
Stain Resistance
In contrast to marble, the non-permeable and thick nature of soapstone countertops makes them amazingly safe against the stain.
Spill a glass of red wine or espresso? Not an issue. Acids like lemon juice and some cleaning items won’t be an issue either.
Soapstone may seem to blotch when something spills on it; however, it will quite often come back to its standard color after the stain has been wiped off from the surface.
Low Maintenance
Different from other countertop materials, soapstone is quite low in maintenance and shouldn’t be covered.
It doesn’t require a considerable amount of maintenance; it is not difficult to clean and is impervious to harm.
You’ll need to apply mineral oil about once per month for the first 12 months, and afterward about once every year after.
Since water and oil likewise add to the oxidation of soapstone, apply a regular mineral oil application as a method for keeping the oxidation uniform over the surface.
Another additional advantage of applying mineral oil is its capacity to limit the presence of scratches.
To diminish the presence of deep scratches, a blend of sanding and mineral oil will, for the most part, work.
Durability
In light of soapstone’s non-permeable properties, you can use most kinds of cleaning items without damaging your countertops, however soft soap and water is the suggested choice.
Since it’s a smooth stone, avoid rough wipes and use a chopping board when cutting or slicing as opposed to cutting straight-through on the countertop.
When taken care of appropriately, soapstone can last for over 100 years.
Heat Resistant
Another extraordinary advantage of soapstone countertops is that they’re profoundly heat-proof, which means you can set down hot pots/pan without causing damage to the stone.
In any situation, despite everything, you’ll need to avoid setting high temperatures on the countertop, as this could spoil the surface.
Rehashed introduction to high temperatures can be dangerous and add to breaking.
Eco-Friendly
Soapstone is frequently recognized as an environmentally friendly countertop—the stone is utilized in its natural state.
It doesn’t need fixing or the utilization of toxic synthetic chemicals to set it up for fitting. Soapstone countertops can likewise be reused.
Extensive Texture Difference
Apart from other common stone surfaces, soapstone is presented in a broad assortment of surfaces.
Natural soapstone is less smooth, while oiled or matured soapstone gives a more seamless finish.
Cons Of Soapstone Countertops
Cost
Soapstone is in the middle range of stone countertops. It falls just under marble and slightly more than granite or quartz at around $90.99–$100.49 per square foot, including fitting.
The cost can be lower depending on where you purchase the soapstone from and the density of the stone.
Size
Unlike other types of stone countertops, soapstone can’t commonly be obtained in blocks bigger than six or seven feet.
If, therefore, your countertop is longer than seven feet, be aware that you’ll no doubt see a breakage.
Flaws
Soapstone is equitably impervious to damage; however, it’s not as hard as some different types of stone countertops, making it increasingly prone to weaken, chipping, and scratching.
Since soapstone lours in color when it gets in contact with water, oil, and lube, there’s no assurance that it will consistently have a uniform appearance.
Nevertheless, defects can be sanded down to limit their appearance or left for a rough, worn look.
Vulnerable to Cracking
As a simple and genuinely delicate material, soapstone may break after some time, mainly because of weight, compulsion, or dampness buildup.
Most everyday chores are not likely to crack or break soapstone, yet damage may happen with the extreme load as the soapstone weaken after some time.
Use sandpaper to buff out little scratches and cracks. Applying mineral oil is additionally an incredible method to safeguard soapstone from cracking.
Choosing the Best Look
Based on the area where it’s quarried, soapstone differs in color from delicate white and light grey to deep charcoal, with most kinds showing subtle veining.
Some contain traces of pearl, blue or green, yet the most pervasive tones are whites and grays.
Keep in mind soapstone’s tendency to weaken after some time: A pale grey will in the prolonged run weather to a more profound, more extravagant shade of grey, while a dimed grey countertop may, in the long run, turn nearly black.
Also, as a result of nature, no two soapstone slab will look alike, so expect a slight difference between joined pieces.
To assist you with settling on a shade, visit a kitchen showroom for already made samples you can contemplate in the lighting of your kitchen.
Remember, new structure and color changes you’re getting ready for the redesign and visualize how the countertop will look in the glazed room.
Final Thoughts
Soapstone countertops are worth considering when choosing a regular natural stone that is low in upkeep and very solid.
It’s only available in white and charcoal – you won’t see pinks, blues, or greens, for instance.
Buying a soapstone countertop is one thing entirely, and where to buy it is another thing.
Where you buy this stone is a big choice to make, because getting a quality stone will determine both the quality and how long it will last.
RSK Marble and Granite is the best place to buy soapstone Countertops.
They are a reliable stone installer company that installs stones for both commercial and residential properties.
RSK Marble and Granite also provides you with a full customer support service and guides you through to a smooth project.
RSK Marble and Granite have over fifteen years of experience in installing and fabricating soapstone countertops, making them the best place to buy soapstone countertops.