Among the many material choices , long-lasting and attractive soapstone countertops stand out as a preferred alternative for kitchens and toilet .
Despite a all-inclusive variety of materials to choose from , steatite countertops are a pop pick due to their low - maintenance , oestrus - tolerant timbre . Though it ’s pricier than othercountertop material , such as granite , its durability is deserving the investing . This templet to soapstone countertops offers pros and inmate of the natural gem material , cleaning and alimony counseling , and more .
What Is Soapstone?
steatite is a instinctive stone stuff composed of talc , chlorite , and bitter spar . Its beautiful aesthetic has been pop for C , commonly featured in carvings , statues , trough , and fireplaces . In recent old age , soapstone has win popularity as a stuff for sinkhole , tile , and countertops , too .
Talc gives the stuff its smooth and soapy texture , hence the name " soapstone . " It come in subtlety of depressed , green , white-hot , gray , and black and is eff for its stain , warmth , and acid resistor . Thanks to its nonporous nature and antimicrobial dimension , soapstone countertops do n’t need to be sealed like otherstone materials , such as marble or granite .
Though it ’s a favorite countertop selection among homeowners due to its lastingness and unequaled appearance , soapstone does require some protection and maintenance , as it is prone to scratches , nicks , and chips .
Credit: Werner Straube
Types of Soapstone
There are unlike types of soapstone useable , each with its own distinct characteristics .
Original Soapstone
Original soaprock usually has a plentiful , saturnine gray coloring with pernicious white veining . It naturally darken with age .
Artistic Soapstone
aesthetic soapstone often showcases unparalleled patterns and colored streaks and vein , take it a popular option for those attempt a more visually spectacular countertop .
Architectural Soapstone
With its promiscuous gray to light-green - gray-headed color , architectural soapstone offers a softer and morecontemporary lookfor countertops .
Ellie Lillstrom
Pros of Soapstone Countertops
There are several advantages to having soaprock countertops , from form to functionality .
Durability
Soapstone is extremely long-lived , so it ’s a honest choice if you use your countertops for preparation , serve meals , or repositing . It can stand firm casual wear and shoot in heavily used kitchen and bathrooms .
Stain Resistance
Kitchens that see heavy dealings , especially clumsy cooks or messy Thomas Kid , will gain from the stain resistance of soapstone . While soapstone countertop are n’t completely impervious to smear , they are less prostrate to tarnish thanmarble or granite .
Heat Resistance
No trivet ? No problem . Soapstone is known for its excellent heat resistance , making it idealistic for aim hot bay window or pans directly on the countertop airfoil .
Natural Aesthetic
A soap-rock countertop is a beautiful element that will elevate the facial expression and feel of any way . With its born , insidious veining and varying shades of gray , the material supply atimeless focal full point for any kitchenor bathroom .
Malleability
The softness of steatite attain it easy for homeowner to tote up purpose features or pragmatic elements that can be built right into the countertop . Dish drainage grooves or soap holder basin are prime lesson of hypothesis .
Cons of Soapstone Countertops
Despite having many advantages , soaprock countertop also have a few drawbacks to consider .
Susceptibility to Scratches
steatite is in the main durable but can develop scratches and dents over time . However , these imperfection can be easily sandpaper or combine by nature with the patina to create an intentionally weather look .
Limited Color Options
Soapstone is primarily available in grays , greens , blue devil , black , or white . This colour range might not beseem everyone ’s design preferences or match alldecor styles .
Regular Maintenance
steatite countertops involve periodic maintenance , including oiling , to enhance their natural luster and protect from stains .
Cost of Soapstone Countertops
Stone countertops are expensive . The cost of soaprock countertop varies depending on factors such as the character and quality of the chosen steatite , the heaviness of the endocarp ( the modal wander from 1.25 inches for kitchen countertops to 2 inches for john countertop ) , the size of the countertop , the complexness of the facility , and local materials and facility prices .
On average , soapstone countertops range from $ 55 to $ 120 per satisfying metrical unit , with installation costs around $ 90 per square foot . The near monetary value of materials and installation for a 50 - solid - ft countertop go between $ 2,500 and $ 5,000 .
Soapstone Color Options
While soapstone is commonly associated with shades of gray and can seem solid coloured in photos , veining and streaks are common in the slabs . Some pop soap-rock colour options includeclassic dark grayin ample , deep tones . Light gray offers a more present-day , airy look . Soapstone in shades of green and blue adds a unique touch to any kitchen .
Black or livid choice are also available to tot up a advanced line to woodwind accents . Due to the stone ’s infrequency , these more alone colour combinations often have a high cost tag end .
Installation Considerations
While many home advance project can be DIY , stone countertop demand professional instalment . Soapstone ’s heavy weight must be supported by solid , reinforced kitchen article of furniture . Correct locating and conniption are also essential .
How to Clean and Maintain Soapstone Countertops
Proper cleaningand maintenance will keep your soapstone countertops looking like new . scavenge them daily by wiping the open with a mild max and water root using a piano cloth or sponge . Mild bleaching agent solutions can also be used .
Avoid harsh , abrasive , or acidic cleaners that can scrub the open of soapstone countertop . Vinegar , lemon juice , or other acidic pith can cause roughness .
countertop should also be embrocate after installment and then again monthly . expend food for thought - grade mineral oil colour to enhance the rude beauty of soapstone and protect it from smear . If a stain occurs , make a poultice using a mixture of baking soda pop and water , enforce it to the filth , and let it sit overnight before rinsing . It may take several applications before the stain lifts .
Credit:Ellie Lillstrom
seal soapstone countertop , though not involve , can raise the Harlan Fisk Stone ’s grunge - resistant properties . If rise , sealing , or oiling is no longer doing the put-on , you’re able to always sandpaper or refinish soaprock .
Frequently Asked Questions
Soapstone tend to be more expensive than granite . soap-rock cost just about $ 55 to $ 120 per square foot and granite come in a bit low-pitched at $ 45 to $ 110 per square groundwork . However , the overall monetary value can vary based on factors such as the sourcing of the stone , its quality , the size of it of the countertop , and the complexity of the installation .
Soapstone is course non - poriferous and does not command sealing . However , some householder do seal off it to make it more immune to stains . If you just want to protect soapstone countertops , you could apply mineral oil once a month . mildly rub it in with a neat textile . Any excess oil can be pass over off with paper towels or another white cloth . This will help the countertop to be stain - tolerant and maintain its raw brilliancy .
quash damage by steering clear of strong bleach , scrubbing brushes , abrasive cleaners , or acidic substances , such as acetum or lemon succus . Use mild soap and water to on a regular basis clean soap-rock countertop .
Credit: Kim Cornelison
