Soapstone has been beloved by people around the world for centuries. The people of Scandinavia used it to make tools during the Stone Age. Native Americans used it to make bowls 400 years ago. And today, it’s a popular choice for discerning homeowners who install soapstone countertops in their kitchens and bathrooms.
Over the centuries, the way people use soapstone may have changed, but its value has remained the same:
Source: Houzz
Beauty
Soapstone’s rich, textured beauty makes it an incredibly versatile material. Not only can it be used in the kitchen or the bathroom, but it can be incorporated into any design—from rustic to modern to modern rustic. It comes in three colors—grey, black and green—which gives you an array of attractive design options.
Durability
Soapstone stands alone among its counterparts in that it is softer and more pliable, meaning that it is less likely to crack or chip. It can withstand more weight and more heat than other countertop materials. And because it’s non-porous, homeowners don’t have to worry about their soapstone countertops staining when liquids such as wine, oil or coffee are spilled on them.
Heat Resistant
One of the properties that made soapstone popular with people centuries ago is its resistance to heat. Native Americans used soapstone to make cooking tools and utensils because heat from fires would not destroy them. Today, the same remains true, and red-hot pans, cups of coffee and even bowls of boiling water are no match for soapstone, which easily absorbs heat without cracking. Yes, soapstone’s resistance to heat is perhaps its most important and impressive enduring advantage.
Environmentally Friendly
Soapstone is 100 percent natural, so it doesn’t require any harsh chemical cleaners or sealers, although you may choose to apply an all-natural oil to make your countertops shine. Nothing about your soapstone countertops will introduce any foreign chemicals to your home or the environment.
Safety
Because soapstone countertops are non-porous, they are naturally cleaner and safer than other types of countertops. Bacteria can’t penetrate soapstone as easily as it can other materials, making soapstone countertops incredibly safe and easy to clean. All it takes to keep your countertops clean and looking great is some mild soap, some warm water and a sponge.
To learn more about why soapstone has been a coveted material for thousands of years–and why soapstone countertops are a good investment in any home–contact Arch City Granite & Marble today.