KB Home \| Advanced Search \| Ask Question
Ask Your Natural Stone Questions

soapstone countertop any good?

Article Number: 1228 | Rating: Unrated | Last Updated: Mon, Feb 18, 2008 at 12:00 AM

I have been drawn to soapstone forever. When I mention it, however, to others (even my fabricator) I get pushed towards jet mist granite either honed or antique. It just doesn't have the same look or feel. I have a large island (8 1/2'x6') so a seam would be necessary. Is this a problem? Scratches seem easily repaired, but how about chips off of the edge? I keep hearing that soapstone is for a "country-like" kitchen, but I have seen it in many styles of kitchens. Am I wrong for wanting it in my not-so-country kitchen? Are some varieties of soapstone harder than others? I guess I just need reassurance that soapstone is okay. Thanks for any info.

Dear Mignon:

Soapstone as a countertop is not okay.

It is one of the very best materials that money can buy!

Why do you think they've been using it so much to make countertops in chemical labs with it?

Stain-proof and acid-resistant like nobody's business!

So do not listen to anybody and go for it if you like it.

I will not get involved in the decorative aspect of the whole thing because I make a lousy decorator, but my wife and I always decided that what we like is what's good for us, period. (Assuming that what we like is inherently any good, of course.)

And the seam should not be a problem.

Yes, they are varieties that are slightly harder, but it doesn't matter, really. If you scratch it, a few strokes of sandpaper will fix it in no time. And about the chipping, if you have a slightly round edge you would not have many of those. Soapstone is soft but it does not chip easily. And again, a bit of sandpaper and elbow grease… J

Some oc cas ional rubbing with mineral oil and a good stone cleaner like MB-5 for routine care, is all you will ever need.

May I ask you now to please read and e-sign our Statement of Purpose at: http://www.marblecleaning.org/purpose.htm?

Ciao and good luck,

Mauri z io Bertoli

www.marblecleaning.org – The Only Consumers' Portal to the Stone Industry Establishment!