People often favor soapstone for many reasons. It’s one of the most durable and stylish natural stones that you can use on your countertop.
Soapstone is a rock composed of talc, chlorite, micas, amphiboles, carbonates, and other components. Typically, this stone is gray, blue, green, or brown colored and is an alternative to using marble or granite on countertops. The benefits of soapstone date back to the late Archaic Period. Native Americans used soapstone for several purposes such as making bowls, cooking slabs, smoking pipes, and ornaments. Scandinavians used soapstone to cast metal objects such as knives and spearheads. People often favor this stone not only for style but for its many practical uses. Keep reading for the reasons that you may want to consider designing your countertop with soapstone could be ideal for you.
Hard to Stain
Soapstone is non-porous, making it incredibly hard to stain your countertop. Some of the toughest stains such as coffee and wine are no match for soapstone. Materials such as granite, marble, and quartz are sealed more than soapstone. It takes a lot of maintenance to preserve these materials compared to soapstone. It makes sense that people have been using soapstone for centuries.
Heat Durability
If you cook often, you understand how hot a countertop surface becomes. You can now place a pan or pot on your countertop and not worry about damaging it! Soapstone is also perfect if you’re thinking about customizing a bathtub. Soapstone can withstand boiling water temperatures without decay or deterioration. Your bath water will also stay warmer for extended periods.
Safer to Use
Due to soapstone’s non-porous makeup, bacteria won’t buildup. While it’s not recommended to sit raw food on your countertop, the chances of bacteria infecting your food are slim to none. Also, think about how often you touch your countertop. It creates less worry knowing that not only does soapstone not require a lot of maintenance but is healthier for you as well.
Easy Maintenance
Soapstone is soft so you may worry that scratches easily appear on this surface. Like with any countertop material, cleaning is essential. Still, cleaning a soapstone countertop isn’t hard. All you need is mineral oil or to lightly sand your countertop.
Versatile Functionality
The many uses of soapstone are astounding. Look below at its other purpose besides just countertop design:
- Sinks
- Wood Stoves
- Fireplaces
- Wall and Floor Tiles
- Bed warmers
- Electrical Panels
Kitchen Countertop Questions?
If you still have more questions regarding kitchen countertop trends for 2019, Rock Tops Fabrication is here to answer them. Our trained professionals are here to make sure that your new kitchen is designed and finished in exactly the way you want it. We service Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Feel free to give us a call at 410-363-4257. For more information, tips and tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest, and Houzz.