For those who want a stylish and durable countertop, soapstone is a great option. Soapstone provides a modern aesthetic to any space. Due to the talc component in these materials, the countertops have a smooth and velvety texture. If you are looking to make the right decision for your countertops, you will want to know a couple of facts about this beautiful material. With this article, you can discover the best features of a soapstone countertop.
What Is Soapstone?
Many people think that soapstone is a delicate stone, but that is just not true. Manufactured soapstone has a hardness comparable to marble. In some cases, it can be as tough as a quartz countertop. Along with that, soapstone can be found in various colors, including green, gray, or black. Some soapstones even have color variations ranging from deep charcoal to light rose. The understated appearance of soapstone can perform well in classic country decor, but it can even complement the look of modern stainless steel appliances.
The Best Features of Soapstone Countertops
There are plenty of benefits to installing soapstone countertops in your home or business. Here are some of the best features of these materials.
Long-Lasting Materials
When you are choosing a countertop, you want something waterproof, heat-resistant, and solid. Soapstone has all of those features, and it is easier to carve due to the high talc concentration. With that, you can incorporate unique design features into your countertop. For example, drainage channels, soap holders, and small depressions can be customized to make life a little easier in those spaces.
Low-Maintenance Options
Like most natural materials, you will need to seal it to protect against stains. However, there is no need for a constant sealing schedule. If you want to preserve the color of the soapstone, think about sealing it about every three to four years. Since this material is pH-neutral, you can use most types of cleaners to sanitize the surface. In most cases, alcohol and wine spills can damage marble and granite, but that is not an issue with soapstone. All you have to do is wipe it down with food-safe mineral oil to stop any stains from forming on the surface.
Over time, the soapstone will darken. If you use mineral oil on the surface, it will continue to have an attractive gloss. When the surface dulls, just add some mineral oil to restore it to its original look.
Heat-Resistant Qualities
Another great benefit is the heat-resistant qualities of soapstone. You can place hot pans on the surface without the fear of damaging the surface. This can be a huge benefit, especially if you need to take hot food off a burner. Plus, you can use soapstone in those areas with outdoor fireplaces. However, you might want to place trivets down to prevent damage and other types of chips.
Resistant To Acid
Along with its heat resistance, this material is resistant to acid damage and stains. The texture is smooth and can keep away alkalis and acids. This resistance is due to the magnesite and calcite veins in the stone.
Choosing the Best Soapstone for a Countertop
If you want to choose the right soapstone for your countertops, granite companies nearby your location can help you find the right option for your home or business. The hardness of the soapstone will depend on the concentration of talc. Some stones have a varied hardness depending on the region where it was mined. Soapstone can be scratched, but they have the durability that can stand up to everyday usage.
When choosing the best option, remember that soapstone colors range from light gray to deep charcoal. Many soapstones also have delicate veining. You might even see touches of emerald, turquoise, and pearl hues on the surface. However, greys and whites are the most common colors. Remember that the color of soapstone does darken over time. For example, if you choose a light gray countertop, it will deepen to a rich gray. Plus, since soapstone is a natural countertop, there are no two soapstones that will look alike.
Cleaning Your Soapstone Countertops
Cleaning is simple with a soapstone countertop. You can use mineral oil and apply it gently to the surface. After using mineral oil, clean the countertops like any other space in your home or business. Water and some soap are all you need to keep it looking great. Even those basic cleaners will not cause harm to the surface. Use a vegetable brush to keep debris out of corners and crevices if you want a deep clean.
If you want to protect the stone, remember to use mineral oil. A thorough sealing should be done every three to four years. However, if you use your soapstone regularly, you can easily use mineral oil to reseal it about every six months.
The Price of Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone countertops range in price depending on the grade, depth, source, style, and material size. In most cases, you can expect to spend about $65 per square foot to install a soapstone countertop. However, some soapstones can run about $95 to $150 for each square foot. If you add any edge profiles or drainage boards, those options can increase the final cost of the product.
Soapstone Is a Fantastic Option
The beauty of soapstone has been prized for centuries. With its convenience and endurance, it is a suitable option for any type of application in a home or business. Along with that, soapstone has a durable structure quality that you can’t find with other types of materials. For that reason, it is the perfect choice for modern and traditional spaces.
Let Marble Concepts Help You
If you are ready to bring home the beauty of soapstone for your countertops, Marble Concepts is ready to help. We have a large selection of soapstone and other natural materials for your countertops. In addition to that, we will professionally install it for a beautiful appearance that will last for many years. Make sure to schedule a consultation by calling 215-396-7393.
