The cloudy appearance is due mainly to the presence of talc. Here are details on each stone to give you a better understanding of what to expect as you select your countertop material. Granite is known for being a very durable natural stone. The following are some points to take into account when deciding which of these two surfaces will make the final cut and become your future kitchen countertops. Basically, that means it won’t hold onto stains and odors as easily. Soapstone is heavier than granite per square foot. Soapstone countertops by Frank Valdes; photo via Houzz. No matter what you choose, make sure that your countertops work for you and speak to the style and tone you want to set in your home. All rights reserved. Any way that natural stone is used will improve your home’s look. Both are very easy to repair. Granite vs Soapstone Countertops. So, you are considering new countertops and are torn between granite and soapstone. Granite forms underground when magma cools, allowing for large crystals of minerals to develop. Granite vs. Quartz vs. Soapstone vs. Marble vs. Travertine vs. Soapstone vs Granite vs Quartz - A Benefit Comparison. Using a professional reduces the risk of any damages occurring during the installation process. The fashion in which granite is not only mined, but subsequently manufactured creates a beautiful, diverse and colorful final product that if properly maintained, can stay in your home for years to come. When it comes to natural stone countertops, there are more options out there than just marble and granite. Soapstone requires very little maintenance. Soapstone forms from heat and pressure during tectonic plate subduction. Both soapstone and granite have a high resale value, meaning either material is a great investment for your home. Because of this, it is easily scratched. You will need to take good care of your granite countertops if you do not want them to get damaged. Many homeowners choose to do it more often just to make sure their countertops retain their original brilliance and shine. When you are looking to buy a new countertop, you will notice that soapstone and granite are two of the most popular countertop materials you will find. Copyright © 1996 - 2020 Marble.com™. You must be logged in before you can vote. However, if you spill something on the surface and it is not properly sealed, the liquid can get trapped in the surface and cause the stone to be compromised. Granite is a much sought-after kitchen countertop material and with good reason. The talc in soapstone gives the stone a smooth feeling, like rubbing a piece of dry soap. It can be difficult to choose between the two; although they are very different in color and texture, both yield the warmth and beauty of natural stone. Since stone counters age far better than tile or formica, the long-term benefits often outweigh the upfront expense. You can clean the surface by using just warm soapy water. Soapstone is nonporous and resistant to bacteria. The homeowners, Jim and Liz Luce, loved the understated look of the material in contrast to the flashier polished granite and quartz. Color and type also vary. However, there is slight variation in color between different types. Both Silestone and granite countertops can last for many years if you take proper care of them. Despite this, you always still want to exercise as much caution as possible when placing any hot items on your countertop. by Jeremy Troetti On the other hand, if your kitchen sees greater amount of foot traffic and those in your home are prone to spills, soapstone would be a sure way to keep your countertops looking shiny despite those inevitable accidents. Although granite is harder, soapstone is less porous. When it is, the countertop will be resistant to moisture and staining. Granite. Either way, your granite countertops will look impressive. Granite also works well in multiple settings around the house. You can clean the countertop using warm soapy water. As for which is more attractive, that is a matter of your opinion. Once an igneous or sedimentary rock that’s been changed, through time and tons of heat and pressure, into a metamorphic rock, soapstone is softer than materials like marble or granite. Soapstone wears well over ti… Homeowners love granite countertops for their durability, aesthetic appeal and overall ability to fit in seamlessly with a variety of interior décor themes. As durable as the natural stone is, it can chip or break if a heavy object falls on it – especially on the corners of the countertop. No matter what you use your kitchen for, it goes without saying that you need countertops that can live up to your standards. Learn all about natural stone and which ones are best for your kitchen countertop. Soapstone counters are naturally gorgeous with gentle veining that isn’t as “busy” as veining in marble and most granite countertop slabs. While natural stone is never 100% immune from heat damage, soapstone holds up remarkably well in the event a hot pan is placed on the surface and for this reason, can be extended to a surface that closes in your oven range without worry. Much like the process for soapstone, you will need a professional to install your granite countertop. Knowing we were going to replace it, I shifted gears and wanted to bring in a white surface. It’s milky appearance gives it a rustic feel when compared with the urbane and elegant look of granite or slate. Take a look! It’s durable, relatively low-maintenance, and has a lovely, old-world feel. Granite vs. Soapstone. A naturally non-porous stone, soapstone can be used not only as your kitchen countertop, but also as the sink itself. If you want to make your soapstone countertops darker, you can treat them with mineral oil. Different cuts of soapstone will contain varying degrees of talc. While this is the case, granite is your better option because of qualities like heat resistance. Having soapstone is no different, as the material is highly sought after. This is not an easy decision because the distinction between the two countertop materials isn't apparent. As mentioned, soapstone naturally darkens with age. Whether it is utilized in the kitchen, bathroom or anywhere else, soapstone’s look and practical benefits will leave you pleased. Let’s say you go with soapstone. A naturally non-porous stone, soapstone can be used not only as your kitchen countertop, but also as the sink itself. Although it will not get damaged from any sharp knives you use on the surface, you still should not cut directly on the countertop. When it comes to maintenance, granite requires a generous amount of TLC. The higher the talc content in the soapstone, the softer it is. A notable example of this is Brazil’s “Christ the Redeemer” statue in Rio de Janeiro, which is faced with soapstone. The natural stone is available in many different colors and will instantly add appeal to any section of the house where it is used. Comparisons of Soapstone and Granite . Also a high-quality natural stone, granite will not cost you as much soapstone. Because soapstone is non-porous, it has a slight advantage over granite because it will not need to be sealed. Granite can be found in many different styles and colors – some more muted and others on the bolder side. If it’s a true aesthetic quality and longevity that you’re after and you’re willing to put in the maintenance to get that, granite countertops will be the way to go. The stone’s natural flecked pattern will help mask any minor chips or cracks in the surface. Because of the talcum, soapstone does have a warmer, softer or silkier feeling than granite, which is quite hard and cold. Soapstone kitchen and bathroom countertops can be left to darken slowly and naturally or be treated with mineral oil to facilitate balanced darkening of the patina. Soapstone vs. Disclaimer: Samples provided for viewing on this page are intended to serve as general examples only; not as an exact replicas of the product you will receive. Granite and quartz are very popular among U.S. homeowners, and marble countertops are also commonly used. You should use trivets or hot pads if you can. In the battle of soapstone vs granite countertops, you’d be surprised at the winner. Minor damages can be sanded out. Soapstone that contains lower amounts of talc is used to build home structures such as countertops. In fact, many homeowners are drawn towards soapstone for the aesthetic appeal of being able to seamlessly match sinks to countertops and have them remain moisture-resistant. Because of the natural stone’s durability, granite can hold up well whether you use it in a kitchen, bathroom or any other room. It is commonly used in house elements as decoration either from the interior or the exterior of the house. However, this is not to say that the material is indestructible. Soapstone Countertops. Ironically, its softness allows scratches to be easily corrected. The higher the talc content in the soapstone, the softer it is. Composed of magnesite, dolomite, chlorite, and talc, soapstone is very soft yet extremely dense. Maintaining either surface is relatively easy. No matter which material you choose, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need before making any decision to purchase. May 3, 2020. 14301 Justice Road Midlothian, VA 23113, 804-404-8004. Not only do soapstone countertops not require sealing, but they can be cleaned with generic household cleaners without wearing down over time. Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) Classic Granite and Marble. Repair is another category that is relatively evenly matched between these two stones. However, granite is porous and can stain. Additionally, you won’t have to invest as much time in the general upkeep that goes along with granite. When handling such items, you should use trivets or hot pads just to be safe. The natural stone contains talc, which makes it soft. Additionally, granite must be professionally installed in order to make sure the stone is not damaged, as it’s very heavy in its final state and not easily maneuvered. While both granite countertops and soapstone countertops are desirable surface choices, it’s essential that you consider your lifestyle and needs before installing one or the other. Soapstone is a metamorphic rock and … All soapstone can be found in shades of gray, but some have hints of green, blue or black. Keep in mind you should never intentionally leave spills sitting on the countertop. When you decide on the type of natural stone that is right for your home, there are several factors that you must give thought to. All rights reserved. Your kitchen says a lot about your lifestyle whether your habits include entertaining children, teenagers or esteemed colleagues who expect nothing but the best. These crystals give granite its color. Commercially available soapstone for countertop use is often light gray, which typically deepens to a darker shade with greenish tones over time. All the owner has to do is rub the scratch out with some steel wool or … Hot pots or pans placed on the surface will not cause any damages. This guide will help you figure out whether soapstone or granite will be a better fit for your remodeling project. Granite needs to be re-sealed roughly once a year. Granite is also one of the most heat-resistant countertop materials you will find. Origin. Soapstone does not require sealing. Granite vs. Quartz What’s the Difference. Total – $2,900 to $ It’s important to factor in your budget when considering granite countertops. A soapstone countertop is non-porous and does not need to be sealed. It can range in age from 300 to 400 million years old depending on which part of the planet it is drawn from. The talc content of soapstone gives it a rating of 1 on the Mohs hardness scale. Soapstone is quite soft, making it a favorite material for the DIY homeowner for use as countertops. A delicate mining and manufacturing process can increase the cost and if you insist on purchasing colors that fall on the rare end of granite such as black, you’ll have to expect to spend a little more. Watch granite slabs being cut from a solid block in Brazil, Classic Granite and Marble BLOOD DRIVE – August, Quality Shows: Classic Granite & Marble’s Amazing Midlothian Business, Top 5 Granite Countertop Cleaning Products, Make An Impact With A Beautiful Kitchen Backsplash. If you love playing host or hostess to a large number of friends on a regular basis, you might be looking for something that gives a more sleek aesthetic appeal, yet still retains the ability to be a comfortable surface on which to lean and converse. Having a professional do the job lowers the chances of any chipping or minor damages happening when the countertop is being installed. If you are looking for a better idea of the cost of either soapstone or granite, you can use this Estimate Tool. Granite is one of the most durable stones you can find, which makes it a popular choice for kitchens. Quarried like granite and marble, soapstone is largely composed of the mineral talc, and is thus rich in magnesium. The appeal of soapstone lies in it’s incredible durability and flexibility. If you are looking for which stone is easier on your budget, granite is your better choice. The natural stone contains talc, which makes it soft. The colors range from almost white to gray, with faint veins that are almost invisible in some slabs. In addition, the natural flecks and grains of the stone will create a unique and satisfying look. It's anywhere from 300 to 400 million years old, and the talc gives it a soft, warm appearance and touch. When it comes down to it, the choice you make when it comes to your kitchen countertops is an important one. How Soapstone Forms . A hot pot or pan will not cause damages. The natural stone is often used in laboratories because of its durability. Soapstone vs. You will need to hire a professional to install your soapstone countertops. / June 26, 2019. Granite, by its very nature, will have variations in color, mineral deposits, texture, veining and directional trends from one slab to another. Also called steatite counters, the stone isn’t porous, so no sealing is required. However, if you apply the mineral oil treatment to the countertop, you should clean using just soap and water. It is a steatite stone and its primary components are magnesite, dolomite, chlorite, and talc. These include granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone, porcelain, butcher block, quartz, solid surface, and laminate. For those who want to speed up the process, your soapstone countertop can be treated with mineral oil to darken it quicker. The Geology of Soapstone . Soapstone does not have many different variations. Read on to find out which countertops are the cheapest and which are the most expensive. If you love the dark beauty of granite and the light veining of marble, consider soapstone instead. Soapstone is comparable to the cost of a high end granite. Soapstone has a milky, muted look most people associate with soap, hence the name. Here’s everything you need to know. Soapstone, which comes from Finland, China and Brazil, is quarried like granite and quartz and is composed primarily of magnesite, dolomite, chlorite and talc.