Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Soapstone Countertops
If you’ve been thinking about remodeling your kitchen, you might have come across soapstone as an alternative to granite or marble for your countertops. Soapstone countertops come in a more limited range of colors than granite, and are softer than other natural stone materials, but they have one major benefit: soapstone countertops are virtually maintenance-free.
Soapstone counters
Soapstone Countertop Cleaning
Soapstone countertops are nonporous, which makes them easy to keep clean. Spills do not soak into the countertops, and do not leave stains. The soapstone may darken when liquid collects, but it will return to its natural color as soon as the liquid evaporates or is wiped up.
Soapstone’s nonporous structureStructure refers to the framework or components of a buildin... More makes it naturally resistant to bacteria. This makes cleaning simple – all you need is mild soap and water. No harsh chemicals or antibacterial cleaners necessary.
Soapstone Countertop Maintenance
Soapstone countertops naturally darken over time. Some homeowners prefer to speed up this process by wiping their countertops with food-grade mineral oil. After 6-10 coats of mineral oil, the soapstone will be permanently darkened and no further treatment is necessary.
Soapstone countertop
Occasionally, soapstone countertops acquire small nicks and grooves that are easily sanded out. Sand nicks using coarse sandpaper in a circular motion until they are almost gone, then switch to finishing sandpaper. Once the nick is gone, treat the area with mineral oil until it matches the surrounding area.
Soapstone Countertop Cost
Soapstone countertops range from $60-$105 per square foot installed, depending on the quality and thickness of soapstone, and the region you live in. If you plan to install soapstone countertops as part of a larger kitchen remodel, ask potential contractors to include them in their quotes. If you plan to replace the countertop alone, look for a company that specializes in architectural soapstone.
Soapstone counter tops
Unlike granite and marble, soapstone is quarried in relatively small (under 7-foot) slabs. If your countertops span more than seven feet, you’ll need a contractor that is skilled in minimizing seams and matching veining.
Once your new soapstone countertops are installed, they will last as long as your house.
About Vince Sandri
Vince Sandri is a disaster restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More content specialist with more than 12 years of experience researching, writing, and educating property owners about water damage, fire and smoke damage, mold remediationMold remediation is the process of identifying, removing, an... More, storm damage, and other disaster recovery topics. Since 2014, he has served as the leadLead is a heavy metal that can be toxic to humans, especiall... More contributor to RestorationMasterFinder.com, where he has developed hundreds of in-depth service pages, educational guides, and industry-focused articles for restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More professionals across the United States.
Through extensive research and ongoing collaboration with restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More contractors, Vince has built a strong foundation in the science, processes, and best practices behind property damage mitigation and recovery. His work helps homeowners, business owners, and property managers understand how disasters impact structures, what immediate steps to take, how professional restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More works, and how to prevent long-term structural and health risks.
Vince specializes in translating complex restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More procedures — including water extraction, structural dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More, smoke odorAn odor is a smell, often detectable by the human nose, whic... More removal, moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More containment, and storm damage repairRepair is the act of fixing or restoring damaged property, m... More — into clear, actionable information that empowers readers to make informed decisions during high-stress situations. His content aligns with industry standards and focuses on safety, accuracy, and practical response strategies.
He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Aurora University and his master’s degree from DePaul University. Since 2012, Vince has focused on SEO-driven website content, technical service pages, and educational resourcesResources include tools, personnel, equipment, and materials... More within the disaster restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More industry.
Outside of his professional work, Vince is also a musician and performs in the Chicago, IL area.
