Soapstone (staetit) is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock composed of mineral deposits created by nature and quarried from the earth. The main mineral components in soapstone include talc, chlorite, dolomite and magnesite, which give it a warm, soft feel. When cut, it oxidizes from light gray to dark charcoal. A light coat of mineral oil or soapstone wax makes the color and delicately flowing veins appear even more dramatic.
Durability
Virtually indestructible, soapstone is an excellent alternative to natural stone, which can be used in place of granite or marble. Soapstone is naturally antibacterial, will not burn or stain, and requires very little maintenance. Acids and alkalis do not etch soapstone like other stones. Soapstone has been a part of American homes since the early 19th century; Many homes today still have working soapstone sinks and wood stoves built over 100 years ago!
Soapstone is the perfect choice for countertops, backsplashes and islands.
Its durable and dense surface has all the beauty of granite or marble without the disadvantages. Acidic foods and wine will not etch soapstone like other stone surfaces. Hot pots can be placed directly on the surface and soapstone is non-porous, making it inherently antibacterial.
Customers who choose soapstone should be aware that while soapstone is very dense and non-porous, it is still likely to be scratched. Soapstone is best used in an environment where the distressed look is desirable. The good news is that if you don't like the scratches, they can be buffed out with fine grit sandpaper. It is highly recommended to apply mineral oil or wax after buffing the scratches. After applying mineral oil or wax, the area should be much less noticeable or completely gone. What appears to be a scratch is often the mineral oil or wax being removed from the surface. Usually the "scratch" can be removed simply by applying mineral oil to the area. Many of our customers like the patina that develops on their soapstone worktops over time. The mineral oil and wax will not stain your clothing or other materials when wiped clean.
Care and Maintenance
Soapstone does not actually require any special care. Most of our customers choose to apply mineral oil or soapstone wax to the surface of their soapstone countertops, but this is not necessary. These products are only applied to the surface to darken the stone and enhance its natural beauty. Soapstone appears naturally as a light gray chalky looking surface (see photo at right). When mineral oil or wax is applied to the soapstone, the surface darkens to dark charcoal and black and the veins in the soapstone really come to life. Neither mineral oil nor wax will seal or protect the soapstone, only darken it.
We recommend applying a light coat of mineral oil or soapstone wax to all sinks and countertops after installation. These products can enhance both the stone's inherent natural veining properties and crystallization details. Mineral oil is available at any drug store and soapstone wax can be purchased at the Stone Countertop Outlet.
The versatility of the finish is one of soapstone's great assets. Not everyone chooses to color enhance their soapstone. Some homeowners love the natural, untreated soft gray look. Others choose to highlight the color with mineral oil or wax. Some treat him with mineral oil weekly, others monthly, and still others only when visitors come. However, when treating with mineral oil, the more often you treat after installation, the less likely you will need to do it. Waxing the surface requires fewer applications than the mineral oil and needs to be reapplied less often to keep the stone dark.
Your soapstone will be fine if you don't apply mineral oil or wax, or if you forget to use one of these products. Over time, the stone will darken on its own. You will find that the soapstone will darken faster in high-traffic areas such as the sink, stovetop, prep areas, etc. If you want to leave your countertops in their natural state at first and months later oil or wax them, that's fine. You don't have to commit to oiling or waxing soapstone the day you install it.
Daily cleaning
We recommend using mild soap and water to clean your soapstone countertops. Soapstone is dense and non-porous, it is very resistant to germs and bacteria. Soapstone is a naturally clean surface. Apart from that, you can use all standard household cleaners for your soapstone tiles. You don't have to worry about using ammonia based cleaners like you would with other natural stones. Placing hot pots or pans directly on your soapstone worktops will not affect the surface. In Europe, soapstone is mainly used for the manufacture of basic stoves and wood burning stones. Placing hot objects on your stone will not crack, discolor or damage the stone.
Soapstone should not be sealed with traditional granite sealers.