Soapstone is a type of natural stone that has a gray-white appearance and also carries a number of distinct characteristics with it that make it a common choice for homeowners to have installed on their countertops when doing a remodel. Understanding the features and drawbacks associated with soapstone can help you figure out if a soapstone countertop is the right way to go for your home.

Advantages of Soapstone Countertops

Low Maintenance: One of the key advantages associated with soapstone as a countertop material is that it is low maintenance. They do not need to be resealed or repainted to maintain their appearance, and they are non-absorbent, which means that cleaning simply consists of wiping down the counter with warm water and soap. The only real maintenance that you'll have to do is optional, and that is treating the countertop with a specialized oil to allow a patina to develop over time — this comes down to personal preference, however.

Aesthetic Appeal: Soapstone presents a very clean aesthetic. Though it is limited in its colors, ranging from white through shades of gray to black, soapstone allows for clean lines and a modern look to be made in your kitchen or bathroom. Further, since soapstone only comes in neutrals, it will match any aesthetic that you may have planned in your home.

Heat Resistance: Another advantage of soapstone is the fact that it is completely resistant to heat and will not warp or melt if exposed to high temperatures. This means that you can set down hot pots and pans right on the surface of your counters without having to worry about any sort of countertop damage, making working in your kitchen much easier.

Disadvantages of Soapstone Countertops

Softness: A key disadvantage of soapstone countertops is the fact that they are fairly soft compared to other types of natural stone. This means that they are susceptible to scratching, nicking, and denting if exposed to physical trauma, which means that you'll have to take care with your knives and cooking utensils while working on them. It also means that your countertops could become marred over time, which would require repair and maintenance work to be done on them, driving up long run costs.

Cost: Another consideration of soapstone countertops is the price point associated with them. Like all natural stones, soapstone is not a budget remodeling material, and though the price will vary depending on the coloring, thickness, and a number of other variables associated with your countertop, this is not the right choice for projects with a limited amount of funds.

Talk with remodeling contractors at companies like Venters' Construction Inc for help designing your new kitchen.