Picking out your bathroom or kitchen counters is an exciting moment. The surface you choose can completely define the space. Many homeowners turn to popular options like marble or granite, but those aren’t the only possibilities. Soapstone is making a name for itself in interior design—and for good reasons. Discover more about this beautiful natural stone with these things to know before buying soapstone countertops.
The Beauty of Natural Stone
Soapstone is a natural stone, which means suppliers quarry it from the earth rather than manufacture it. As a result, soapstone counters boast completely unique appearances; no two slabs are exactly alike. Color variations, veining, and other natural factors define its look.
That said, most soapstone counters have various shades of gray with white and gray vein patterns. Some soapstone slabs contain hints of blue, green, or pearlescent tones, but these are subtle and rare. Soapstone also darkens over time with a natural patina. Some homeowners choose to speed up this process by applying mineral oil to create a uniform, darkened appearance for their counters.
Hardness vs. Density
Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing your countertop material. Both hardness and density influence a material’s durability. Hardness determines how well the stone holds up against scratches, dents, and other impacts. Durability refers to porousness, which influences stain resistance and anti-bacterial properties.
Soapstone is softer than other options like granite or marble but has remarkable density. If you install soapstone countertops, you must take care to avoid scratching or denting them. However, soapstone is compact and non-porous. This prevents stains and bacteria from seeping into the stone, preserving the look and sanitation of your counters.
Soapstone Care Routines
Soapstone is also easy to maintain. However, you still need to know a few care tips to know before buying soapstone countertops. All you need to clean soapstone is soap and warm water. That said, you can use basically any cleaner on your soapstone because of its non-porous nature. Even harsh cleaners are harmless on your counters.
As we mentioned above, soapstone is relatively easy to scratch. Thankfully, the vein patterns in soapstone help disguise minor blemishes. You can also easily repair scratches with sandpaper and water, making soapstone maintenance relatively easy.
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