ISN'T SOAPSTONE SOFT? WON'T MY COUNTERTOPS SCRATCH?

The simple answer to both these questions is "YES". Soapstone, because of it's mineral composition, is softer than some of the other countertop choices. While some would see this as a disadvantage, it is actually one of the great advantages of Soapstone. Unlike all other countertop choices, most small scratches will disappear in the course of daily use and cleaning. Deeper scratches are easily removed with a light application of mineral oil or in extreme cases a light sanding.

If you want to remove a scratch, it can be removed by lightly sanding with 80 - 180 grit sandpaper. Soft pressure and circular stokes should be used letting the paper do the work. Be careful though, in most cases a scratch is no more than a displacement of mineral oil, which disappears when it is reapplied.

WHAT COLORS DOES SOAPSTONE COME IN?

Brazilian Soapstone ranges from dark green to black. There are two main ways that the stones will differ in color. First, you will find large variations in the color of the veining in the stone. Clients can choose any color of veining that is available at that time. The color ranges from white to dark green. Secondly, the main color of the stone can vary. Although subtle, the background color of the stone varies from a dark green/jade to black. Most stone when oiled will appear black. When dry, and after some time in the home, your stone will have lighter grey to black patina with the veining also adding character.

IS SOAPSTONE ONLY USED FOR COUNTERTOPS AND CARVINGS?

The answer to this is emphatically "NO". We are excited to dream with you about the possibilities for your home with Soapstone. Honestly, if you can dream it can be done. We will list a few uses though; sinks and basins, custom integrated vanities, wall and floor tile, back splashes, shower floors, fireplaces, water features, and planters.

WHY IS IT RECOMMENDED TO OIL SOAPSTONE?

Since Soapstone is non-porous, nothing penetrates the surface. When any liquid is spilled or applied to the surface, the Soapstone will darken because the light refracted off the stone. The stone will lighten when the substance is removed from the surface either by evaporation or cleaning. In order to avoid an inconsistent color or tone, we recommend applying mineral oil to the surface of the stone.

HOW OFTEN DOES SOAPSTONE HAVE TO BE OILED?

This question really depends on personal preference. Some people do not oil their countertops as they prefer the lighter look and feel of the stone when it has not been oiled. If you do choose to oil your soapstone though we recommend weekly for the first month. Then twice a month, or less, depending on the use over the next three months. The thin layer of oil will keep the stone a consistent shade of dark gray or green. The oil does evaporate so the stone will lighten with time. Areas around the sink may require more frequent applications depending on use.

SHOULD I USE ENHANCER OR MINERAL OIL

This question really depends on the preference of the customer and each product has it's benefits. If a client wants the traditional appearance of soapstone then they should use mineral oil. The stone will patina over time and give the beautiful look that has made soapstone so loved. If you want a more uniform tone in the stone the enhancer would be your best choice. The enhancer is used once or twice in the first couple of days after installation and then not needed for a long time except for small touch-ups. If you are oiling your counters you will need to refresh your counters for the first 6 to 8 months every two to three weeks. The end result is very different with the two products so you will need to be aware of the differences. If you have been oiling your counters you will not be able to change to enhancer unless the counters are re-sanded.

Ask Us A Question