What is a Soapstone Countertop?
Soapstone is a natural stone material consisting primarily of talc, one of Nature’s softest minerals. Soapstone actually feels similar to that of touching a dry bar of soap; it has a soft, smooth comfortable texture. Soapstone Countertops provide a natural beauty all their own, and many practical advantages, as well. True soapstone is essentially inert, and as such is not affected by acids or alkalis which it may be subjected to as a countertop. Soapstone is also impervious to deep staining, as it does not absorb below the surface level. A common practice is to “seal” a soapstone surface with mineral oil or stone-sealer product. Doing so significantly changes its appearance to a much darker color, and often highlights the unique features of the stone itself. Soapstone may be sanded to return it to its natural color, since the oil or sealer penetration is superficial only. Soapstone countertops are a little pricey, averaging out around $65 per square foot, installed.
