Soapstone Countertops: The Beauty of Soapstone – Granite Guy Inc.

The Enduring Appeal of Soapstone

When choosing your kitchen countertops, don’t overlook the many benefits of soapstone, which has been a favorite of sculptors for centuries. The Alberene Soapstone Company, founded in 1883, was a big deal in the local economy, employing over 2,000 people in Schuyler, Virginia and was a major soapstone producer.

Soapstone has been used for centuries in everything from cookware and sculptures to modern kitchen countertops and sinks, so it’s clear it’s durable, heat resistant and beautiful in home design. It has talc in it, which makes it soft — like marble. But what soapstone lacks in hardness it makes up for in density and its soapy feel.

Why Soapstone Is a Sanitary Choice

Soapstone particles are very compact, more so than marble, quartz and granite. Translation? Soapstone is more sanitary and easier to clean because it’s smooth. And you don’t have to seal it for added protection.

Because of its impervious surface the risk of bacterial growth is low — a good thing to see in a kitchen or bathroom.

Heat Resistance That Sets It Apart

This material is used in fireplace construction so it’s one of the most heat resistant stones around. Go ahead and set a hot pan on your counter — it won’t leave a scorch mark.

All that being said, soapstone does darken over time due to a natural process similar to oxidation. So it will develop a patina over time that you’ll either love or not.

The biggest downside to soapstone is it can chip or scratch under heavy use. So you can’t drop a heavy cast iron skillet on the counter or chop food directly on the surface.

Soapstone: A Naturally Unique Stone

Soapstone is a natural stone that has been loved for centuries for its versatility and beauty. This metamorphic rock is mostly talc which gives it a unique soft texture often described as “soapy”.

Along with talc, soapstone has varying amounts of other minerals like chlorite and amphiboles which gives it durability and heat resistance. Unlike granite and other countertop materials, soapstone has a feel and look all its own making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops, soapstone sinks and fireplaces.

It can withstand heat damage and resist stains so it’s a great option for those who want functionality and elegance in their home.

Physical Characteristics

Soapstone is known for its unique physical properties. With a Mohs hardness of 1–2 it’s soft compared to other natural stones but highly durable.

One of its best features is its heat resistance — it can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or damaging. This makes it a great material for kitchen countertops and other high heat areas.

Soapstone is nonporous so it resists stains and is easy to clean. The talc gives it a soft, silky feel and it comes in many colors: light gray, blue and green.

Each slab of soapstone is unique and often has considerable veining which adds to its natural beauty.

Types of Soapstone

Soapstone comes in several varieties, each with its own characteristics and uses:

• Architectural soapstone is the most common type, used for countertops, sinks and other decorative elements because of its durability and beauty.

• Artistic soapstone is a higher quality type used for carvings and sculptures, prized for its smooth texture and workability.

• Oiled soapstone is the deep charcoal type often used for countertops and other surfaces to enhance its natural beauty.

Soapstone can also be classified as natural soapstone or quarried soapstone depending on how it’s extracted and processed. Each type has its advantages so soapstone is a versatile and sought-after material.

Soapstone Countertops in the Modern Kitchen

Soapstone countertops are becoming popular in modern kitchens for their durability, heat resistance and beauty. Unlike quartz countertops, soapstone countertops have a natural, organic look that’s unique to each slab.

They are stain and heat resistant so perfect for busy kitchens where functionality is key. The nonporous nature of soapstone means it’s easy to clean and maintain.

To enhance its appearance and protect it from stains, soapstone countertops can be oiled with mineral oil and will have a rich, polished look.

Whether you need a countertop that can withstand daily use or one that adds a touch of natural elegance to your kitchen, soapstone is a great material to consider.

Soapstone Slabs Benefits

Other than that, there are many benefits to soapstone. Let’s explore more.

While granite is thought of as the classic high-end kitchen countertop material and engineered materials like quartz and recycled glass are very trendy right now, there’s no reason you should follow the crowd.

Soapstone is making its own trends, showing up more and more in homes across America. This smooth material is unique and beautiful, derived from the naturally occurring stone known as steatite. This is a magnesium-rich metamorphic rock that comprises a high percentage of talc, which is the substance found in baby powder.

Soapstone backsplashes go with various kitchen designs, adding value to luxurious and modern farmhouse kitchen styles.

Soapstone vs. Misconceptions

Artistic soapstone, which includes the softer varieties, has a soapy, silky feel to it because it can have up to 80% talc. It’s been used for carving for centuries which is why it’s so misunderstood in these modern times — many homeowners mistakenly believe this material is too soft for a countertop. Not so.

The type of stone used in countertops and fireplaces is called architectural soapstone, which has only 30% talc. So it’s quite hard and doesn’t crack easily, making it perfect for being cut into slabs.

Soapstone is actually less porous and less prone to staining than granite and a smidge harder than marble.

What Soapstone Looks Like

Soapstone slabs come in creamy shades from white to dark gray with subtle veining throughout. It has a less dramatic look than granite but many homeowners like this subtlety compared to the loudness of granite.

More Pros of Soapstone

• Soapstone doesn’t stain like granite and marble do.

• You can sand out scratches and dents in soapstone and re-oil with mineral oil.

• Soapstone looks antique and elegant, especially as it ages and wears over time.

• No sealing is required, unlike granite and marble which need to be sealed once a year.

• Soapstone is scorch and burn resistant — it’s a very heat resistant material.

Who It’s Best For

In the end, soapstone countertops are perfect for homeowners who like the old-time charm of counters that develop patina over the years. Great for classic kitchen styles, soapstone is easier to care for and more charming than many other natural or engineered stone materials.

Plus, soapstone can save you money through energy efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for your home.

Maintenance

To keep the beauty of soapstone, regular care and attention is required.

To keep it looking its best, soapstone should be oiled with mineral oil periodically. This not only protects the surface from stains but also enhances the natural luster.

Soapstone scratches, so it’s important to clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap — avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can damage the surface.

With proper care, soapstone will develop patina over time and add to its antique charm. Regular maintenance will keep your soapstone looking beautiful and functional for years to come.

Contact Granite Guy for Natural Stone

For more information on our soapstone countertops and to get a free quote, call us at 508-460-7900 or email us at info@graniteguyinc.com.

Fabrication and installation of soapstone kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities and surrounds for Eastern Massachusetts.
Located 20 minutes from Boston on Route 9 in Southborough, MA.