Soapstone is typically gray, bluish, green, or brown in color, often variegated. Its name is derived from its “soapy” feel and softness. The name “soapstone” is often used in other ways. Miners and drillers use the name for any soft rock that is soapy or slippery to the touch.
Table of Contents
READ ALSO
Working the soapstone is an easy proposition—the stone is surprisingly soft because of its high talc content, so it can be cut with woodworking tools fitted with diamond-impregnated blades. However, that powdery talc makes cutting outside a must, with dust mask and eye protection mandatory.
Thereof, Is Soapstone more durable than granite?
The Durability of Soapstone In addition, soapstone is very non-porous, another important strength that sets it apart from granite, sandstone and slate. It doesn’t require the sealing that those materials do, and it is far less likely to stain when wine or oil are spilled onto it.
Also to know is, Can you drill soapstone? Soapstone is soft enough that you could actually use a hardened steel core bit if you kept it cool during the drilling. Soapstone was a popular high end countertop in colonial days partly because it could be worked with the metal tools available.
Subsequently, question is, What color does soapstone come in? Types of Soapstone. Architectural soapstone comes in three main color varieties: gray, blue, and green. Because soapstone is so much more consistent in color and look than granite, it does not really have consistent names across suppliers.
Also, Can you put a hot pan on soapstone?
Soapstone is both chemical resistant and heat resistant, so you can set hot pots and pans directly on soapstone without risk of cracking or scorching. Soapstone is much softer and more prone to scratching than granite or quartz however, so preparing food directly on your soapstone counters could easily scratch it.
Is the talc in soapstone dangerous?
Some soapstone contains silica, which can cause silicosis when inhaled. This should likewise be avoided, but is not as serious a hazard as asbestos. Granite, for instance, contains a lot of silica, but it may be carved safely if proper precautions are followed. Talc (steatite) is still used for “talcum” (body) powder.
How do you get scratches out of soapstone?
The great advantage is that any scratches can be easily removed with a light sanding and/or mineral oil. Light scratches can be hidden by lightly applying some mineral oil. With deeper scratches you will need to sand the area in order to remove the scratch.
How do you restore soapstone?
– Clean the soapstone sink with a dishcloth and mild dishwashing liquid. …
– Apply mineral oil to the soapstone with a clean, dry cloth.
Does soapstone come in white?
Unlike other mineral stones, soapstone comes in limited color options. Its typical color options are green, black, white, bluish gray, and gray.
Does soapstone contain asbestos?
Serpentine, soapstone, and greenstone may contain asbestos, which can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and stomach and intestinal cancers.
Is there white soapstone?
White Soapstone. While most soapstone is darker in color, ranging anywhere from charcoal grey to black to smoky blue, White Soapstone features a lighter, nearly white background with deep, dark veins of graphite. … Soapstone is softer than granite or marble, so it will scratch easier than these materials.
Which is more expensive granite or soapstone?
Cost. Soapstone costs roughly $70 to $120 per square foot installed, making it pricier than many other natural stone countertop materials. Also a high-quality natural stone, granite will not cost you as much soapstone. … If you are looking for which stone is easier on your budget, granite is your better choice.
Where can I find natural soapstone?
Soapstone, also known as steatite, can be found all over the world. Much of the soapstone seen these days comes from Brazil, China or India. Significant deposits also exist in Australia and Canada, as well as in England, Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and the United States.
How can you tell if soapstone is real?
– Get a standard straight pin and heat it up. Take note that it should be really hot. Push it into the bottom of the material being tested. …
– The equally simple test is done by scraping the bottom of the material. Real soapstone should yield odorless trimmings. Naturally the will feel like talcum powder.
Do soapstone countertops scratch easily?
Soapstone is a softer stone that granite or marble. Scratches do happen. Soapstone is composed of talc which is soft, but dense. So while soapstone does scratch and dent easily, it is also resilient.
Is Soapstone more expensive than granite?
Soapstone costs roughly $70 to $120 per square foot installed, making it pricier than many other natural stone countertop materials. Also a high-quality natural stone, granite will not cost you as much soapstone. The material typically costs in the range of $40 to $100 per square foot installed.
Do you have to oil soapstone?
While many homeowners choose to oil soapstone to enhance its natural color and movement, this is not necessary. In fact, many people prefer the look of untreated soapstone.
Don’t forget to share this post 💖
References and Further Readings :
