Buying Kitchen Countertops: What You Should Know about Soapstone
Soapstone is elegant, but can also add a boldness to any decor. With its light gray surface and subtle veins, soapstone merges old-world charm with modern beauty. Hot pans won't damage the stone, lemon and tomato juice won't discolor it, and it highly sanitary. Homeowners use this stone in several decor styles such as contemporary, country, traditional and french.
What Is Soapstone?
Soapstone is also known as steatite or soaprock, and consists of metamorphic rock. It is composed primarily of talc, as well as magnesium, mica, quartz, chlorite and iron. These natural stones were made over time and under extreme pressure, due to the harsh enviroment, soapstone is extrememly durable, with standing heat up to 2000 degrees and will not discolor or stain.
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A beautiful and industructable stone, meant for your home!Considerations When Choosing Soapstone Countertops
Thickness and Edges. Most manufacturers of soapstone recommend an inch and a quarter thick countertops. Seams are virtually invisible. Preferred edge options include squared, eased, beveled, bullnose, radius and double radius.
Care and Maintenance. Unlike other stones, soapstone won't absorb stains and discolorations, so it simply doesn't require sealers. Stains and blemishes are only skin deep and can be removed with gentle sanding. Applications of mineral oil will remove most scratches. Light gray soapstone darkens over time, accentuating its gray veining. Regular applications of mineral oil enhance its beauty.
Care and Maintenance. Unlike other stones, soapstone won't absorb stains and discolorations, so it simply doesn't require sealers. Stains and blemishes are only skin deep and can be removed with gentle sanding. Applications of mineral oil will remove most scratches. Light gray soapstone darkens over time, accentuating its gray veining. Regular applications of mineral oil enhance its beauty.
Wipe the countertop with a soft cloth and warm water. Mild household cleansers are suitable. Soapstone benefits from regular applications of mineral oil and will darken over time.
The Bottom Line. An age-old option, soapstone is at home in any style, from traditional to contemporary. Soft to the touch, the surface ages gracefully and lasts for years.
Ooo! I bet the house elves have soapstone counter tops in the kitchen at Hogwarts! It sounds very durable and flexible in style. Does it cost more than other counter top materials?
ReplyDeleteThe price of soapstone is a little more costly than other stones, but because it is a natural stone, it is nearly indestructible. If for some reason you do have any dents or cracks in your stone, they can easily be fixed by yourself for under $10. Another alternative is that you can save money on the install and fabrication because you can install it yourself without any special tools or machinery.
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