Soapstone for Countertops: A Natural Choice

If you want a natural stone countertop with easy maintenance needs and a unique character, soapstone might be just the right stone for you!

At KG Stevens, we love helping our customers find just the right countertop. Let’s take a look at this lesser-known natural stone and see why it might be perfect for your countertop needs.

Why Choose Soapstone For Countertops?

Soapstone has a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from other countertop materials. With its velvety smooth texture, subtle veining, and rich color variations ranging from deep charcoal to soft gray, soapstone exudes a sense of timelessness and quiet luxury.

Unlike granite or marble, which often feature bold patterns and striking colors, soapstone exudes a softer elegance that complements a variety of design styles, from modern to rustic. Its veining is often soft in appearance for a gentle charm and warm feeling.

Soapstone also has a unique physical feel. The surface is somewhat soft to the touch, and over time and use it develops a beautiful patina unlike any other stone. No two soapstone slabs develop the same patina, so your counter will become something truly unique to your home as it changes over time.

One of the most compelling features of soapstone for countertops is its natural composition, which eliminates the need for sealing.

Unlike granite or marble, which require regular sealing to protect against stains and moisture damage, soapstone is naturally non-porous. This means that it does not absorb liquids or harbor bacteria, making it inherently resistant to staining and easy to clean.

Pros And Cons Of Soapstone Countertops

Not sold on soapstone yet? It’s definitely not as common as marble or granite, but it certainly has lots of benefits and pros in its favor.

Here are the key pros and cons of soapstone countertops that you should consider when thinking about a new countertop.

The Pros of Soapstone

• Durability: Soapstone is incredibly durable and resistant to heat, stains, and scratches, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
• Timeless Beauty: With its natural charm and subtle veining, soapstone adds a touch of elegance to any space, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike some other natural stone countertops, soapstone requires minimal maintenance and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
• Non-porous: Soapstone is naturally non-porous, which means it is impervious to liquids and does not harbor bacteria, making it a hygienic choice for food preparation areas.
• Heat Resistant: Soapstone is highly heat resistant and can withstand high levels of heat. This makes it great for kitchen use and bathroom use if you have someone in the family who uses hot hair tools.

The Cons of Soapstone

• Susceptibility to Scratches: While soapstone is relatively resistant to scratches, it is not entirely scratch-proof and may develop a patina over time. However, many people find this to be a part of soapstone’s charm.
• Limited Color Options: Compared to materials like granite or quartz, soapstone offers a more limited range of color options, primarily in shades of gray and black.
• Prone to Chipping: Soapstone can be prone to chipping or denting if subjected to heavy impacts or sharp objects. However, it still is very hard; you’d have to drop something very heavy from quite a height to damage your soapstone countertop.

Soapstone Countertop Installation

The installation process for soapstone countertops requires precision and expertise to ensure a flawless finish.

You need to choose a fabricator and installer who knows how to work with this stone; ideally, you’ll choose a fabricator who does both the creation and installation of your countertop. While the DIY route may be tempting to some, it really isn’t a good idea for this type of stone.

Installing your countertop incorrectly can lead to damage, including cracked slabs, and you will likely spend more time and money repairing or replacing it than you would have if you just went with a professional in the first place. Save yourself the distress, hassle, and time!

If you’re thinking about replacing your countertops or putting in a unique natural stone countertop in new construction, KG Stevens has the inventory and expertise you need. Contact us today for a free estimate!