Soapstone countertops have become a popular choice for their practical benefits and visual appeal. Soapstone is a natural stone and it is known for its naturally occurring deep, rich color. It combines functionality and beauty, therefore it is one of the most versatile options for home renovations. Regardless if you are renovating your whole kitchen or just want to change your countertops, soapstone countertops in Massachusetts will elevate your home.

What is Soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural stone and it is known for its unique properties. Soapstone is comprised mostly of talc, which gives the stone a smooth and soft feeling to the touch. Even the name soapstone is derived from this feeling, when you touch it soapstone feels soft like a soap.

The composition of soapstone also includes magnesium and chlorite. These inclusions enhance the durability of the stone without interfering with its appearance. Soapstone countertops in Massachusetts are very popular due to their non-porous nature, meaning they are resistant to stains and bacteria. Thanks to this quality soapstone is a great option for areas such as kitchens or bathrooms.

What are the Qualities of Soapstone?

The unique qualities of soapstone set it apart from other natural stones and manufactured alternatives like quartz or marble. Its deep charcoal color is one of the most notable characteristics of soapstone. This signature color can range from a very dark, almost black tone to softer gray hues. The color of soapstone deepens naturally over time, giving soapstone a dynamic quality that is unique and can’t be replicated.

Soapstone is a non-porous stone, which is an incredibly important and influential quality to consider before choosing the right countertop material for your home. As it is non-porous, it won’t get stained or discolored like porous stones like quartzite or granite do. Moreover, its non-porous structure removes the need to seal or reseal soapstone countertops.

Cons of Soapstone Countertops

While soapstone is a very durable material, there are some considerations to keep in mind while making the final decision. Soapstone is a softer stone compared to alternatives like quartzite. In other words, it is more susceptible to scratching. However, as the stone develops its natural patina over time, even if scratches were to occur, they wil be easy to blend out or camouflage.

As mentioned before, soapstone has a dynamic ability that darkens its color over time. This unique quality can be one of the pros or cons depending on your wants and needs. Although this one-of-a-kind ability makes your countertıp age gracefully, you might also want the countertops to stay exactly as the day you got them installed.

Using Mineral Oil on Soapstone

Applying mineral oil on soapstone countertops is a common practice that enhances the natural color of the stone while providing a polished, rejuvenated appearance. Applying mineral oils will highlight the gorgeous deep tones of the stone and it will highlight the subtle color changes on the slab.

While oiling the soapstone countertops is an optional step, it is highly encouraged because oiling the stone will help you create a uniform look throughout the slab. As it will slightly darken the color, mineral oil also hides faint imperfections. As the stone gets darker over time, the need for oiling it will disappear.

Heat Resistance of Soapstone

One of the most practical benefits of soapstone countertops is their incredible resistance to heat. Heat resistance is one of the most sought-after qualities for kitchen countertops as it grants the convenience of placing hot pots and pans on the countertops without an issue.

Soapstone countertops are very heat resistant, thus they can withstand high temperatures without the danger of cracking, discoloration, or warping. This quality also contributes to the durability of the countertops. Some other materials that aren’t as resistant to heat such as quartz require the use of additional protections such as trivets or protective pads, but the resistance of soapstone allows it to maintain its structural integrity and visual appeal even under high levels of heat.

Soapstone Countertop Maintenance

Ease of use and low maintenance are some of the most requested qualities of any countertop material. With so many things to do in a day, you wouldn’t want to add the additional step of caring or fussing over the countertops. This is one of the areas where soapstone shines. It does not require sealing, making it an ideal option for anyone looking for a material with minimal upkeep.

You don’t need any special products for soapstone either. Mild dish soap and a soft sponge are perfect for daily cleaning as they will remove any daily spills without damaging the stone.  Scratches can be sanded out or they can be treated with a light layer of mineral oil.

Soapstone Selection at Stone Concepts

Stone Concepts is a well-respected and trusted provider of natural soapstone countertops in Massachusetts. Stone Concepts shines with a dedication to expert craftsmanship and customer satisfaction above all else. With a wide variety of soapstone slabs in various shades such as deep charcoal to ash gray, you are guaranteed to find the right shade that matches your home and kitchen design.

The expert team of installers in Stone Concepts understands the challenges that might come with each unique installation and they are equipped to tackle every issue head-on. With training and craftsmanship on their side, installers execute the renovation precisely.

In short, soapstone countertops in Massachusetts are a great option with benefits that include both functionality and beauty. Soapstone will gracefully age with you while providing a reliable and long-lasting work surface for you and your home for years to come.

FAQs