Soapstone
How to Care for Your Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is a great option for countertops, flooring or fireplace installation. It has natural thermal properties that hold warmth longer, helping create a cozy space. Although it’s a natural stone, soapstone is non-porous, meaning it’s resistant to staining from liquids and naturally antibacterial. Composed primarily of talc, along with other minerals, it has a soft, smooth, velvety feel.
If you have soapstone in high-use areas like kitchen countertops or bathroom countertops, you’re probably wondering about the best way to preserve its appearance and longevity. As experts in stone, we’ve put together an easy-to-follow guide to help you maintain your surfaces.
Do
For everyday messes, use warm water and mild soap to wipe up messes.
Wipe spills promptly.
For light scratching, gently rub with a damp cloth or a Scotch-Brite pad.
For deeper scratches, lightly sand with a fine-grit (200-400) sandpaper using a circular motion, wipe clean and follow up with oil to blend the area.
Retreat your countertops with oil once the previous coat of oil starts to fade. Use the oil periodically for darkening and maintenance.
Don’t
Use harsh chemicals on your soapstone. Strong chemicals can strip the oil finish and lead to additional maintenance.
Use abrasive scrubbers, as they can cause scratching.
Cut directly on the surface. We recommend using a cutting board.
Seal your soapstone. Sealing is not required because soapstone is naturally non-porous.
One of the most notable qualities of soapstone is that it naturally darkens and develops a unique appearance over time, also known as patina. While oiling your soapstone enhances the aging process, many customers choose to leave their stone untreated.
Any stone material can potentially be damaged by sudden or rapid temperature changes, especially near the edges. Use of hot pads and trivets is always recommended. We do not advise putting hot cookware directly on custom countertops other than porcelain.
Soapstone is a timeless option; it grows more beautiful with age when cared for properly. If you need guidance on maintenance or product recommendations, our team is happy to assist.
Information provided by Young Brothers Inc. 0126
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