Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is a relatively softer but highly durable stone. Being a natural stone, soapstone has been used for various purposes throughout history. Due to its relatively softer composition, soapstone has been a good carving material for artists in different parts of the world. These days, we see soapstone countertops in many places.
It is not unusual that soapstone is overlooked by some as it is not as hard as other natural stones such as granite or marble, or as varied in color. However, some people still admire soapstone countertops as they offer unique beauty and a rustic feel that other stones can’t compare with.
Soapstone Specifications and Applications
Soapstone, also called soaprock or steatite, is a metamorphic rock. The composition consists of a lot of talc, making it feel like soap. There are soft and hard soapstones. Unsurprisingly, the amount of talc is much higher in soft soapstone. Softer soapstones are better for artistic purposes like carving and sculpting. Alternately, the harder types are good for surfaces in homes, such as countertops.
Soapstone countertops are not as common as other natural or engineered stones because they do not offer as many color options. It is true that soapstone slabs only come in shades of gray, so you will never have a soapstone countertop in colors like red, yellow, green, blue …etc. However, a soapstone countertop gets darker as you use it, thus making it look more metropolitan day by day. In fact, that’s why many people prefer soapstone kitchen countertops and soapstone bathroom countertops to other options.
The slabs are usually sold in 2 cm and 3 cm thicknesses. Though the standard slab size is 30” x 84”, you can find them in various other sizes. The honed finish is recommended in residential and commercial settings.
If you are in VA, soapstone will be a wise choice for you as Landmark Surfaces offers the best soapstone slabs for your spaces.
Types of Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is understated and simple. The silky feel makes it a very nice design option for different interiors and exteriors. As mentioned above, soapstone doesn’t offer many colors and finish options, but you can find a few options that may suit you. Here are two popular types of soapstone slabs.
Black Soapstone Countertops
Gray Soapstone Countertops
Green Soapstone Countertops
Green Soapstone Countertops
Can't Decide? There are hundreds other options. Contact us for an expert help.
Why Should You Choose Soapstone?
Kitchens with soapstone countertops always look warmer and friendlier since soapstone kitchen countertops are rustic and cozy. Though the colors and patterns are limited, the warm and velvety feel with its mesmerizing shades of gray makes this soapstone an excellent choice.
As for the bathroom, soapstone is an amazing material for bathroom countertops, vanity tops, sinks, flooring, and wall tiles. Aside from its high versatility, the soapstone adds alluring beauty and outstanding style.
Apart from its aesthetic advantages, soapstone is also very functional. Soapstone is softer than other stones like granite, marble, or quartzite. However, it is still one of the most durable architectural materials. Moreover, it is non-porous, unlike granite or marble, so it doesn’t get stained. Though its soft characteristic makes it prone to scratches, the same feature, softness, makes it incredibly resilient against cracks.
Why Should You Choose Landmark Surfaces?
Landmark Surfaces is dedicated to offering you the best surface solutions. We are a local store in Virginia. Soapstone and many other popular natural and engineered stones are all available at affordable prices.
If you are in Chantilly, Alexandria, or Fredericksburg, VA, and soapstone is what you are looking for, we are here to help you with installation, too. Thanks to our 20+ years of experience in the business, fast turnaround time, and impeccable workmanship, we are also proud to offer the best installation service in Fredericksburg, Chantilly, and Alexandria.
If you are thinking of any kind of home improvement, you should visit one of our stores in Virginia. Check out the latest in surface options trends and feel the quality for yourself.
Soapstone Countertops: Advantages and Disadvantages
Soapstone comes with certain advantages and disadvantages. Knowing them helps a lot when it comes to choosing the best countertop material for your space. Let’s review the soapstone countertops’ pros and cons.
Pros of Soapstone
- Soapstone is non-porous, which means no permanent stains or bacteria build up.
- The surface is heat resistant.
- Cleaning and maintenance are easy.
- It is highly durable.
- Installation is easy
- It increases the resale value of the property.
Cons of Soapstone
- It comes with limited color options.
- It scratches easily.
- It needs regular mineral oil application.
Soapstone Countertop Price
The average price for a soapstone countertop is $55-$100 per square foot. The price is subject to change depending on the type and color. Soapstone is lighter than other natural stones, so you can install soapstone countertops yourself if you have any DIY experience. However, we at Landmark Surfaces, still advise you to get professional help for that. Thus, you need to add the installation fee to get the total cost of the soapstone countertops.
How to Take Care of Soapstone?
Soapstone is easy to take care of. Here are some key maintenance routines that might help.Mineral Oil Treatment
Sanding The Surface
Be aware that sanding should never be part of your maintenance routine. It is only needed when the countertop gets a deep scratch. The procedure is as follows:
- Sand the scratched area using coarse sandpaper.
- If the scratch is almost flatted, go on sanding using smoother sandpaper.
- Apply mineral oil to the area.
- The spot will look a bit darker, so you may need to apply some more oil to the entire surface a few days later to get it to darken evenly.
How to Clean Soapstone Countertops?
FAQs
What is Soapstone Used For?
Is Soapstone More Expensive Than Granite?
Which Is Better, Quartz Or Soapstone?
Soapstone counters are resistant to staining but prone to scratches. Quartz is just the opposite. As for the price, the costs of soapstone countertops are usually higher than quartz slabs.
What Is Soapstone Made From?
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock. It is a fully natural steatite.
What Type of Stone Is Soapstone?
Is Soapstone Good For A Countertop?
What Colors Do Soapstone Countertops Come In?
What is Soapstone Made of?
Where Can I Buy a Soapstone Countertop?
