Soapstone
If you're looking for a honed and dark, durable, heat resistant
natural stone for your countertop or fire place, Soapstone is your
answer! Soapstone is almost as hard as marble, and the perks
continue. Since soapstone is softer than other stones, custom things, like a drainboard, can be built directly into
your counter! Soapstone can withstand the heat of a pan right off the
stove and is bacteria resistant.
Soapstone is a closed pore rock that will not stain or etch. Acidic
drinks and foods are no match this counter and will clean up without a
trace. It is chemical resistant. Soapstone comes in a limited color range. The
color variance and veining are determined by the other minerals within
the rock. Apply the mineral oil to darken the stone
and bring out the vibrancy of the veins. Mineral oil application or enhancer will
help the stone darken over time in a more consistent manner.
Polished, Honed, or Leathered?
Classic Marble & Stone offers several finishes for your natural stone surfaces. Polishing, honing, and leathering are the most popular finishes.
Polishing is a very durable finish that creates a bright, reflective shine. The polishing process closes the pores of your stone which makes it more stain resistant. Etching can still occur with polished marble, but it can be re-polished back to that bright shine.
Honing is a process created with abrasives that will leave a smooth, satin-like, matte finish to your stone.
Leathering is a textured finish similar to honing. The leathering process applies a slight shine to your stone and leaves a more natural surface to your granite or marble.
Sealants are an impregnator that work to fill the pores of your natural stone and make it much less likely to stain. Granite and Marble should be resealed annually. Soapstone uses Food Grade Mineral Oil or Stone Enhancer to darken the finish, no sealant is required.
Like all natural stone counter tops and surfaces, each stone slab has slightly different characteristics. Classic Marble & Stone welcomes you to our showroom to select the perfect natural stone slab with the characteristics that you'll love! Our stone inventory is stored indoors where you'll be comfortable year round browsing our selection!