Copyright © 2019-2021 CountertopAdvisor.com All Rights Reserved! Soapstone countertops naturally resist bacteria growth and stains; however, due to the softness of soapstone, soapstone countertops can scratch easily. To apply a soapstone sealer, scoop some wax out onto a clean, soft cloth or a clean sock. These dents can be sanded out, or they can be left to add to the uniqueness and charm of soapstone countertops. Soapstone countertops come in a variety of shades and color variations, which means you can find the perfect color combination for your kitchen and bath design. Soapstone takes the benefits of these two natural stones and combines them into a beautiful countertop that is durable, provides an old world feel, and is low maintenance. However, another stone that’s very similar is being quarried from a nearby quarry. The country of India also yields soapstone. It comes in shades of red, brown, yellow, and even green. Butcher block is an affordable alternative to stone countertops. Quartz, however won’t work for us at all because of the resin in it that will yellow next to the bright sunlight that will pour into our kitchen directly onto the countertops. Furthermore, soapstone kitchen countertops will be unaffected by any type of liquid that could stain other stones. They include granite, marble, quartz, and more. All photos used are copyright to their respective owners. Because of soapstone’s color and design, it looks great in old, rustic, historic, modern, and contemporary homes. The area of Uttar Pradesh is known for its Gorara stone, or India soapstone. Price: Each surface material ranges in price, some being more dramatic than others. Food grade mineral oil is food safe, which means that if you accidentally drop a piece of food on your countertop, it will be safe for consumption. Installation costs for soapstone countertops range from $50 to $65 per square foot, resulting in a total price for both materials and installation at $95 to $150 per square foot. When soapstone is quarried, smaller slabs are cut, which means if you need a counter longer than seven feet, multiple pieces of soapstone must be put together, resulting in visible seams. If you took chemistry, the tabletops used in the lab were soapstone. Cost of Soapstone Countertops. Commercially available soapstone for countertop use is often light gray, which typically deepens to a darker shade with greenish tones over time. Soapstone offers numerous benefits, making it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms in busy homes. In addition to countertops, soapstone backsplashes are typically 1.25 inches thick. Each material has its positive and negative aspects. Pour the mineral oil out and use either a small paintbrush or a clean cloth to spread the mineral oil across the entire surface of the soapstone countertops. Allow the adhesives used to install your soapstone countertops to dry overnight before applying mineral oil. Soapstone is a natural stone that is nonporous and durable. Architectural soapstone comes in three main color varieties: gray, blue, ... you should plan on spending $70 to $80 per sq. Soapstone quarries are located in North America, India, and Brazil. Once the countertop is completely saturated with oil, allow it to remain on the soapstone for a half of an hour. Things that you should consider when deciding on a stone countertop include the porosity of the stone, the durability of the stone, how to clean the countertops, and how much maintenance is required. Soapstone used for countertops comes in slabs and is categorized by color. Soapstone, when first quarried, is pale in color; however, over time, it will develop a gorgeous patina as it is exposed to oils, grease, and water. Use a clean damp sponge and remove all dust before applying the mineral oil. These include granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone, porcelain, butcher block, quartz, solid surface, and laminate. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.cst.cmich.edu/USERS/DIETR1RV/soapstone.htm. The only maintenance recommended, not required, is the mineral oil treatment to enhance the natural darkening process the stone goes through and to ensure the soapstone … The wax sealer will last for several years before a reapplication is needed. Thicker slabs, elaborate edge profiles, and grooved drainage boards can further increase the total cost of installation. The durable stone is quite forgiving. Its dark gray color has dark spots and patterns. Soapstone has gained popularity because of its use in countertops. To ensure an even layer, use a clean soft cloth to dry the countertop before proceeding. As mentioned above, you’ll have your choice regarding the type of surface texture you’d prefer. Most homeowners prefer a simple edge profile due to the softness of soapstone. Types of Soapstone. Soapstone countertops are going to take some effort because you really need to care for them to try and keep the damage down. Before beginning, you will need a circular saw, a drill, a jigsaw, a sander, and a grinder. Soapstone used for countertops comes in slabs and is categorized by color. But unlike either of these stones, its non-porous, which makes it completely stain resistant. Soapstone is a natural product quarried from the ground in blocks, like marble and granite. Soapstone countertops naturally resist bacteria growth and stains; however, due to the softness of soapstone, soapstone countertops can scratch easily. Mineral oil is created from petroleum, whereas a soapstone sealer is made using carnauba wax and walnut oil. “The Maine Soapstone Company – All About Our Soapstone.” The Maine Soapstone Company – Home. Thank you for being that audience! Soapstone countertop slabs are available for purchase from a local stone yard, or at a home improvement store. The colors range from almost white to gray, with faint veins that are almost invisible in some slabs. Read on to find out which countertops are the cheapest and which are the most expensive. Soapstone does not have many different variations. “GemRocks: Soapstone.”College of Science and Technology :: Central Michigan University. When carrying the soapstone to install it, you will need help as a slab of soapstone weighs 20 pounds per square foot. Soapstone does not stain. N.p., n.d. C&D Granite guarantees we will work with you to choose the best stone for your quartz countertops, marble countertops, soapstone countertops, or granite countertops. Allow the wax to sit on the countertop for no less than 15 minutes and no more than 30 minutes. You’ll also want to oil them to keep the beautiful coloring that makes soapstone such a great choice. Architectural soapstone is the type used to produce counters, bathtubs and other surfaces that need a bit more durability. The durability of soapstone kitchen countertops includes its … The cost of soapstone slabs ranges from $45 to $85 per square foot. Soapstone ranges in color and pattern from grayish white to a darker charcoal; the latter effect can also be achieved by applying mineral oil to the surface of the mater… You can make soapstone work in a variety of spaces. After 15 days, the wax will have fully cured, and you can use your soapstone countertops to their maximum capabilities. Soapstone has been used for centuries by some of the most famous sculptors due to its chemical makeup. Besides Chile and India, soapstone is also quarried in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. Soapstone counters can be cut with a variety of edge profiles. Furthermore, soapstone is temperature neutral, meaning hot pots and pans can be placed on the surface without worrying about damage. Soapstone countertops are the perfect choice for a home due to their neutral background and vein colors. If your kitchen or bathroom remodel wish list includes natural stone countertops, consider eco-sensitive soapstone. There are many different types of natural stone countertops on the market. Use a lint free cloth like a t-shirt to wipe off the excess was. Installing soapstone counters in your home offer you a tremendous return on your investment. Liquids cause soapstone to oxidize, darkening the stone’s color and bring out the natural beauty of soapstone. Geologically, soapstone is a talc-schist, which is manufactured by heat and pressure within the earth. For instance, some are very strong while others can be … When a stone professional does the work, it will be done quickly and with minimal waste. If you’re interested in using it as a kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity here are some additional things to consider. Brooke Wagner Design If you cannot decide between marble or soapstone countertops, this kitchen offers a smart solution. Several of the most common forms are what’s called original soapstone, Iceflower, and amazon. Next, ensure all cabinets are level. These white veins are typically quartz. In addition to soapstone, you have several other choices when it comes to solid countertops, such as granite, quartz, or marble. Soapstone is available in gray, blue gray, and green gray colors. The finish on a soapstone countertop is usually honed, and many homeowners will apply food-grade mineral oil to deepen and enrich the color of their soapstone countertop. If the look of natural distress isn’t your thing then consider a quartz alternative like Charcoal Soapstone or Eternal Marquina which mimics the soapstone look but doesn’t require any maintenance as soapstone would.