Trend Alert: Soapstone Countertops

The countertop in any kitchen is often the showstopper piece. Whether you prefer simple, solid countertops, or you’re a huge fan of veined marble, there is something for everyone! With the amount of choice on the market continually increasing, we have seen a huge surge of interest for one specific type of countertops. And that is Soapstone Countertops! Let’s take a closer look!

What are Soapstone Countertops?

Soapstone countertops are made from quarried stones, such as chlorite, magnesite, and dolomite. Most of these contain quite a bit of talc, which can make the countertop look milky or powdery.

You may also find it helpful to read about Kitchen Countertop Materials!

Why we love it!

We love soapstone countertops because of their natural beauty. Each slab of soapstone is unique, making each project or kitchen with these countertops special. Soapstone countertops are also super durable, making them ideal for busy families! So not only do they look fantastic, they stand the test of time and wear and tear!

How to use Soapstone Coutnertops

There are a few ways you can use soapstone countertops in your home…

Our favorite is in the kitchen! With the durability associated with this stone, soapstone is great for using as a kitchen countertop. Choose from a variety of dark shades and natural detailing to find something unique to you and your home.

Soapstone countertops are also fantastic for use in bathrooms. Unlike marble or granite, the alkalis and acids don’t affect soapstone in the same way. Where most stones will stain and erode with exposure to acid and alkalis, soapstone is much more durable. Many brands come with 10 or even 15 years of warranty against chipping or cracks*.

*Always check specific warranties for stone with each brand before purchasing.

What to watch for.

While soapstone countertops are very durable, there are some considerations to take into account when thinking of incorporating them into your home.

As soapstone is a natural material, there are very few options to choose from in terms of colors. Shades of grey, blue and black are common colors to expect with a soapstone countertop, which may not be for everyone. Also, it is difficult to get an exact matching pattern for two pieces when creating something like a waterfall countertop.

Another thing to keep in mind is the cost of soapstone countertops. They will need to be professionally installed and this can bump the price up per square foot quite a lot.

Despite the durability of soapstone countertops, they are prone to scratching easily. Soapstone is a soft stone so simple things like throwing a spoon can scratch the surface. Scratches can be removed by sanding the countertop down.

Ways to make this trend last in your home

Adding a completely different material than the normal ones often spoken about can feel daunting, but there are ways you can make this trend last for many years!

If you’re ready to take the plunge with soapstone countertops, make sure to get lots of samples and do your due diligence with research and speaking to professionals in the field. Each product will vary from brand to brand so it’s important to get all the facts before placing an order.

You can easily make this trend last in your home by using dark cabinets to complement the soapstone countertop! This will make a striking statement and create a totally unexpected interior.

Otherwise, pair these countertops with lighter-colored cabinets to make them stand out.

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