What are the cons of soapstone?

Cons

• It wears unevenly. If you want a dark look for your soapstone, you have to oil it every few months.
• It requires seams. It’s difficult to find soapstone slabs in longer lengths, which means that most soapstone countertops will have a seam.
• It’s expensive.
• It needs to be maintained.
• It has a funny feel.

Is soapstone better than granite?

Architectural-Grade Soapstone Many people are surprised to learn that soapstone, while somewhat softer than granite, is less porous and susceptible to staining, and is harder than marble. It is less dramatic than most types of granite, but many people prefer its subtle beauty to the loud exuberance of granite.

Can you put hot pans on soapstone countertops?

Soapstone is both chemical resistant and heat resistant, so you can set hot pots and pans directly on soapstone without risk of cracking or scorching. Soapstone is much softer and more prone to scratching than granite or quartz however, so preparing food directly on your soapstone counters could easily scratch it.

How long do soapstone countertops last?

It’s limited in color from white to charcoal – you won’t find pinks, blues or greens for example—but if that range fits your design scheme, this high-quality countertop material should give you 20+ years of attractive, hardworking performance.

Does soapstone crack easily?

Durability. Since soapstone countertops do not crack easily, they are more durable than other countertops made of natural stone.

Does soapstone stain easily?

Maintenance: Soapstone doesn’t stain, although it will naturally darken with use. Since soapstone is inert and non-porous, it doesn’t need to be sealed, although it’s sometimes treated with mineral oil to achieve a dark, even appearance.

Does soapstone scratch easily?

Soapstone, being softer than granite and marble, is also more prone to scratches. The great advantage is that any scratches can be easily removed with a light sanding and/or mineral oil. Light scratches can be hidden by lightly applying some mineral oil.

Is soapstone easy to maintain?

Yes, Soapstone Will Scratch—But Maintenance Is Simple Its nonporous nature means that caring for soapstone is simple: little more than water and a gentle cleanser is needed for regular maintenance. Despite the ease of maintenance, there is one thing to keep in mind when it comes to soapstone countertops.

What colors does soapstone come in?

Soapstone Countertops colors Unlike other mineral stones, soapstone comes in limited color options. Its typical color options are green, black, white, bluish gray, and gray. The veining of this stone is less compared to granite and marble.

Is soapstone hard to maintain?

Ease of cleaning and maintenance Since soapstone is non-porous, it is easy to clean. However, you need to use mild soap and a soft sponge. When it comes to maintenance, soapstone countertops need regular oiling to maintain their natural look.

Can soapstone get wet?

Moisture clings only to the surface of soapstone and is unable to force its way inside, even under pressure. Soapstone is structurally dense. If moisture gets inside natural stone, it weakens the strength properties of almost all types of stone. If a stone gets wet unevenly, it can bend.

Is soapstone high maintenance?

If you love the dark beauty of granite and the light veining of marble, consider soapstone instead. It’s durable, relatively low-maintenance, and has a lovely, old-world feel. Soapstone is similar in price to a high-end granite, and less than marble.

How durable is soapstone countertops?

Soapstone countertops are a very durable natural stone. Since they are heat resistant and non porous, they can be a wonderful alternative to granite counters. Sometime soapstone looks elegant and other times it has a more rustic or lived in look. Your sink, faucets, and decor set the tone.

How durable is soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural and durable countertop choice. For centuries, it has been used to craft countertops, hearths, and stoves. Soapstone forms from mineral deposits and is one of the softest, most non-porous, natural stones on earth.

Where to buy soapstone?

Soapstone artifacts have been found in large quantities in Wyoming and Washington (as well as British Columbia in Canada). Quarries in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts are considered the most likely source for soapstone artifacts found on the east coast of the USA.

Where does soapstone come from?

Soapstone is a soft rock composed mostly of mineral talc. It is also known as steatite . The United States ranks among the leading producers with deposits found in California, New York, North Carolina and Virginia. Other countries that produce soapstone include Canada, France and Italy.