Archive for the ‘countertops’ tag
soapstone sinks
soapstone sinks
Soapstone Countertops
Usually dark gray in color, soapstone has a smooth and soft feel. Although often seen in historical homes, these countertops are used in modern homes as well. Soapstone provides a rich, deep color that is mostly stain resistant. Although a bit pricy, soapstone is a one of a kind texture that has a very aesthetically pleasing look.
Soapstone is a steatite stone and its primary components are magnetite, dolomite, chlorite, and talc. These components give it a soft touch with the smooth feeling of rubbing a dry piece of soap, which is how it got its name.
Cost: About $50 to $200 per square foot.
History of Soapstone 101
Soapstone can range in age from 300 to 400 million years old depending on which part of the planet it is from! Soapstone has been used throughout the world for tools, vases, goblets, fireplaces, etc., for thousands of years. Today in the United States and other parts of the country, soapstone is used for the largest variety of items ever yet, such as balusters, stair treads, window sills, and island tops.
Soapstone maintenance is fairly simple. Soapstone is impenetrable, meaning that nothing can sink into it. When it comes to caring for these countertops, there are many options, and the first is doing no maintenance at all. If this is what you choose, the stone will slowly darken over time from regular use.
Using standard mineral oil on soapstone will keep the counters a uniform color, and should be reapplied every 4-8 weeks. To return the stone to its original grayish color, use sandpaper. Scratches can be fixed with sandpaper and a little mineral oil or sealer. Marks can be rubbed out with a dry paper towel.
About the Author
Express Countertops is Maryland’s single-source provider of all types of countertops. We carry ALL of the major brands, including Formica and Nevamar laminate countertops, Corian and Avonite solid surface countertops, Silestone, Zodiaq and Avonite manufactured stone countertops, and genuine granite and marble countertops. And best of all - we will install your new countertops in 1 week - guaranteed!
US $999.99
Bucks County Soapstone - A message from Scott