If you have ever been in a historic home and gone into the kitchen you have probably seen a soapstone countertop. It is a darkish gray color, shiny and smooth. Many modern homes have soapstone as well not only for their countertops but for their sink material. Back in the 1800s and 1900s soapstone was used for counters, urns, sinks, fireplaces and sculptures. There is a rich, deep color to soapstone and it is somewhat stain resistant. Soapstone countertops are often used in science labs because abrasives and many acidic compounds will not affect it.

The cost of soapstone is comparable to granite. It normally costs from $50-$100 per square foot. That does not include shipping, design or installation of the soapstone countertops but just the material. You must remember though that soapstone is nearly impenetrable although it can crack under extreme surfaces. Soapstone countertops last a very long time. Unless there is damage it is safe to say that a soapstone countertop can last over 25 or more years.

The popularity of soapstone is increasing once again and it is in the top ten favorites for counter materials. Oddly enough, soapstone is not found everywhere in the world but it is found in Vermont and Brazil. It is called soapstone because it has the feel of dry soap when you run your hand over it. It is very smooth. Soapstone also retains heat and is often used in fireplaces and pizza ovens not to mention wood stoves. The soapstone stays hot long after the heat has dissipated from the wood.

Among the leading types of countertop materials, soapstone is higher end. This is because of the beauty, rarity of the stone and the long lasting qualities. If you are looking for a countertop material that will last for years and gives your kitchen a warm and elegant look then you are going to love soapstone. Soapstone is more resistant to stains and even if it does stain it only takes some scrubbing or a little sanding to remove. This is because soapstone is not as porous as some other rock materials.

To wrap it up; soapstone is high quality, higher priced, longer lasting and more stain resistant than most other materials. There is no color choice that may put some people off. It is gray and only gray. If you are looking for a long lasting, durable countertop that will last for years then be sure to check into soapstone countertops. In many ways it is superior to even marble and granite because it is not as porous and does not stain as easily.

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