Why Choose Soapstone For Your Kitchen?

Soapstone has been a desirable and beloved material for centuries. In fact, the Scandinavians used it to craft their tools in the Stone Age. Native Americans made bowls with it 400 years ago. Today, people use it for their kitchen countertops.

If you’re in the market for new counters, your first instinct may be to choose granite since it’s most popular.

Soapstone primarily comes in a limited color range, including shades such as grays, greens, blues, black, and white.

But why choose soapstone for your kitchen? It’s just as durable, beautiful and long-lasting as other stone types, and adds a unique character to your kitchen and home.

Let’s take a look at why you should choose soapstone for your kitchen counters.

Introduction to Soapstone

Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a naturally occurring stone composed of talc, chlorite, and dolomite. This versatile material has been used for centuries in various applications, from crafting tools and bowls to modern-day countertops, sinks, and fireplaces.

It has also been popularly utilized for creating various decorative items, including carvings, showcasing its versatility as a sculptural medium.

Soapstone countertops are particularly popular among homeowners due to their unique appearance, durability, and ease of maintenance.

Available in a range of colors, including light gray, dark gray, and green, soapstone can be finished with various textures and patterns to suit any design aesthetic.

With proper care, soapstone countertops can last for decades, making them an excellent choice for both kitchen and bathroom countertops.

It's Beautiful

Soapstone has a rich, textured beauty that can transform any room of your home into a showpiece. This versatile material, a type of metamorphic rock, is comprised of talc, a magnesium-rich mineral.

Softer varieties of soapstone have a unique silky, soapy feel, enhancing the perception of the material’s texture.

You can incorporate soapstone into virtually any design, whether you’re going for a rustic or modern look.

It’s available primarily in three main colors: light grey, green, and black, so it can be matched to fit any kitchen design you may have.

Over time, a natural patina can develop, enhancing the antique look of soapstone and adding to its aesthetic charm.

This is one reason why soapstone countertops are perfect for vintage homes — their aged look only improves with time, complementing traditional and historic aesthetics.

It's Durable

Soapstone is softer and more pliable than other types of stone, but that’s a good thing: this means it won’t crack or chip as easily.

While soapstone is durable, it can be scratched by sharp objects or abrasive cleaners. It’s able to withstand more weight and heat than other materials.

Plus, it’s non-porous, which means you don’t have to worry about staining your countertop when spilling coffee, wine, tea, olive oil or food.

Its non-porous nature makes it highly stain-resistant, preventing liquid absorption and staining.

Moderate scratches can be repaired to restore the appearance of the countertop.

To maintain the surface, regularly clean it with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution, avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.

It's Heat Resistant

Soapstone’s resistance to heat is one of the main reasons this material has been popular for centuries.

Native Americans used it to create cooking tools and utensils, as soapstone would not be damaged by heat from fire.

As a modern homeowner, you don’t have to worry about setting hot pans down directly on the surface, as soapstone counters are resistant to heat.

Soapstone can withstand direct contact with hot pots and pans without damage.

Its heat resistance makes it a practical choice for kitchen settings, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.

Additionally, soapstone countertops enhance the aesthetic appeal of modern kitchens, making them an optimal choice for homeowners.

It's Environmentally Friendly

This 100 percent natural material requires no harsh chemical cleaners or sealants, but you may decide to apply an all-natural oil for added shine.

Soapstone is quarried and its extraction process contributes to a low carbon footprint.

Soapstone won’t emit foreign chemicals into your home or the environment, which makes it an eco-friendly choice.

Additionally, soapstone, being a natural material, can be recycled and does not involve harmful synthetic chemicals in its extraction, promoting sustainability.

It's Safe

Because soapstone is non-porous, it makes for a safer countertop than other materials. It does not absorb liquids, preventing stains and damage from spills.

That’s because bacteria cannot penetrate soapstone as quickly and easily as it can penetrate other materials.

So, soapstone counters are not only safe, they are also easy to clean. You just need some mild soap, warm water and a sponge.

Avoid using harsh chemicals to maintain the surface. Using a mild soap and water solution is recommended for daily upkeep of soapstone surfaces.

Soapstone Countertop Options

When it comes to soapstone countertops, homeowners are presented with a variety of options that cater to different tastes and design preferences.

Soapstone, a natural stone quarried from the earth, is available in a range of colors including light gray, dark gray, and green.

Each slab of soapstone boasts a unique appearance, with some featuring pronounced veining patterns that add character and depth to the countertop.

In addition to the color range, soapstone countertops can be finished in several ways to achieve the desired look:

• A honed finish provides a smooth, matte surface that exudes understated elegance.

• A polished finish offers a glossy, reflective appearance.

• A leathered finish gives the soapstone a textured, suede-like feel that adds a touch of rustic charm.

Try a soapstone kitchen backsplash to coordinate with your countertops — it brings cohesion, durability, and visual depth to your kitchen design.

Design and Aesthetic

Soapstone countertops are a favorite among homeowners who seek to infuse their kitchen or bathroom with a touch of elegance and sophistication.

The natural stone’s unique, organic appearance is characterized by its subtle color variations and distinctive veining patterns, which can range from delicate to dramatic.

This inherent beauty makes soapstone a versatile countertop material that can complement a variety of design styles, from rustic farmhouse to sleek modern.

When paired with other natural materials such as wood or stone, soapstone countertops create a cohesive and harmonious look that is both visually appealing and functional.

The stone’s durability and low-maintenance nature further enhance its appeal, as it is resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.

Comparison with Other Materials

When comparing soapstone countertops to other countertop materials like granite, marble, and quartzite, several key differences stand out.

Soapstone is a durable and low-maintenance option, offering unique qualities such as heat resistance and hygiene benefits.

Unlike granite, which is prone to staining and requires periodic sealing, soapstone is non-porous and naturally resistant to stains.

Marble, while elegant, is more susceptible to etching and scratching, whereas soapstone’s softer nature allows for easy sanding to remove any scratches.

Quartz countertops are another popular option, but they often come with a higher price tag and may lack the unique, natural appearance of soapstone.

Cost and Installation

The cost of soapstone countertops can vary based on the quality of the stone, the size of the countertop, and the complexity of the installation.

Due to the weight and unique characteristics of stone countertops, particularly soapstone, professional installation is highly recommended.

On average, soapstone countertops range from $70 to $120 per square foot, making them a relatively affordable option compared to other natural stones.

The installation process typically involves:

• Measuring and templating the countertop area

• Cutting and finishing the soapstone slabs

• Securing the countertops with adhesives and fasteners

Investing in professional installation ensures that your soapstone countertops will look stunning and perform well for years to come.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Maintaining the beauty of soapstone countertops is a straightforward process, thanks to their resistance to stains and scratches.

To keep your soapstone countertops looking their best:

• Wipe them down with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution

• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners

For tougher stains, a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can be effective.

To enhance the color and texture, regular oiling with mineral oil is recommended. This:

• Brings out the stone’s natural beauty

• Provides added protection against stains and scratches

Sealing the countertops periodically can help safeguard them further.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While soapstone countertops are known for their durability and low-maintenance requirements, they can still encounter certain issues such as scratches, stains, and etching.

Scratches:
Minor scratches can be sanded with fine-grit sandpaper.

Stains:
Use a mixture of baking soda and water, apply as a paste, and wipe away.

Etching:
Prevent by avoiding acidic substances like citrus juice or vinegar.

Soapstone countertops can be prone to cracking or breaking if not installed properly. Hire a professional installer with experience in working with soapstone.

Regular maintenance, such as oiling and sealing, helps prevent these issues.

Return on Investment

Investing in soapstone countertops can provide a high return on investment.

According to the National Association of Realtors, soapstone countertops can recoup up to 80% of their cost at resale, making them a valuable addition to any home.

Their durability and long-lasting nature mean minimal maintenance and repairs over their lifespan.

Soapstone kitchen countertops offer:

• Aesthetic appeal

• Heat resistance

• Hygienic properties due to their non-porous nature

They prevent stains and promote easy maintenance while aging beautifully over time.

Conclusion

Soapstone countertops are a unique and attractive option for homeowners seeking a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing surface for their kitchen or bathroom.

While they may require periodic oiling, soapstone countertops are resistant to stains, heat, and scratches, making them a practical and stylish option for any home.

Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, soapstone countertops are definitely worth considering.

With their timeless beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance, soapstone countertops are an excellent investment for any homeowner.

Contact Granite Guy

Looking for a soapstone fabricator in Southborough?

Consult with our qualified soapstone installers today when you contact us at

508-460-7900.

We would be happy to detail further benefits of soapstone and will gladly install a countertop in your kitchen.