How does Soapstone compare in pricing and durability with other materials like granites , quartz and marbles?
Soapstone is comparable to the pricing of the higher end granites and Silestone. Most natural stones like granite and marbles need to be periodically sealed to prevent staining, in fact some stones even after being sealed will still stain. Soapstone is a very dense/non porous stone which will not absorb anything. We have installed soapstone tops and sinks in many acid rooms and chemistry labs, because the stone is so non porous and resistant to acids, chemicals and heat. Since it is a softer stone, it could get scratched by items that wouldn’t normally scratch a granite, but, these scratches are easily removed with a light sanding, done by the homeowner with little effort.
