FAQ’s For Soapstone Countertops…
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What is soapstone?
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What color is soapstone?
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What do I use to clean my soapstone countertops?
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How durable are soapstone countertops?
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What thicknesses are available and / or recommended?
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Does a soapstone countertop need plywood underneath for support?
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I've heard soapstone is really soft. How does this affect wear and tear?
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Can soapstone be scratched?
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How are scratches in soapstone repaired?
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Do I have to apply mineral oil to my soapstone countertops?
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Why is it recommended to oil soapstone?
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How is mineral oil applied?
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When do I apply mineral oil?
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Will I have seams?
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What do seams look like?
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How much are soapstone countertops?
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What edge profiles are available?
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What kind of warranty do you offer?
What is soapstone?
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock which comes in varying degrees of hardness. It is composed mainly of talc, magnesium silicate and chlorite.
What color is soapstone?
It's a darker natural stone and comes in shades of grayish to green to blues, and charcoal gray. Random markings include white veining, shades of green, amber or beige in the shape of veins or other formations.
What do I use to clean my soapstone countertops?
Any household cleaner and a damp cloth or sponge.
How durable are soapstone countertops?
A soapstone countertop will last many lifetimes. It is a dense natural stone which allows nothing to penetrate it, not even bacteria. It is impossible to stain and unaffected by heat.
What thicknesses are available and / or recommended?
- 1¼” – Sinks and Countertops
- ¾” – Backsplashes
- 2½” – Fireplace Application
- Tiles and sinks are also available
Does a soapstone countertop need plywood underneath for support?
Soapstone countertops can be placed directly on your cabinet frames with a silicone adhesive. Your cabinets must be sturdy.
I've heard soapstone is really soft. How does this affect wear and tear?
The edges will soften and your soapstone countertops will accumulate some nicks, scratches, and dents. The scratches can be removed with a light sanding. Otherwise, these little nicks and scratches become part of the patina.
Can soapstone be scratched?
The beauty of soapstone is that it can be easily repaired.
How are scratches in soapstone repaired?
A simple wipe with mineral oil and the small scratches are gone. For deeper scratches, a light sanding followed by mineral oil will remove any scratches.
Do I have to apply mineral oil to my soapstone countertops?
No. Your stone will end up with a more rustic look.
Why is it recommended to oil soapstone?
Soapstone turns dark when it is exposed to water, grease, and oils. Treating your soapstone with mineral oil will keep your stone uniform across the entire surface. Mineral oil will also bring out the richness of your stone's natural color. The color is deeper and more dramatic.
How is mineral oil applied?
Apply the mineral oil to your entire counter and then wipe up any excess oil with a soft clean cloth.
When do I apply mineral oil?
- Immediately after it is installed.
- After your initial application, apply once a week for the first 6 months.
- Then, once a month for the first year.
After that, just apply as needed to keep your stone looking new.
Will I have seams?
Possibly depending on the size of your project.
What do seams look like?
The seams are about 3/32” wide and are joined together with an epoxy. The seams are then sanded flush so you cannot feel them and they are hardly noticeable.
How much are soapstone countertops?
The price will depend on your location and also the availability. The price is competitive with high-end granite, ranging from $75 to over $100 per sqft installed. We are happy to work with you and your designer to give you an estimate on your project, and we can help you with options to fit your budget.
What edge profiles are available?
Click here for examples of available edge profiles.
What kind of warranty do you offer?
NW Concrete Interiors offers a One-Year Limited Warranty against manufacturing defect.