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How to Maintain the Beauty of Soapstone Countertops

So, you have finally finished your kitchen remodel and have the most beautiful soapstone countertops. Now the question you want to ask is how do you take care of it to prolong its beauty?

Here, Custsone Company has some tips for you:

What Is Soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural stone that is mined from the earth. It is cut into slabs and finished for use in homes and commercial buildings. Soapstone is known for its durability and beauty, making it a popular choice for countertops.

Soapstone is a non-porous material, which means it is resistant to staining and easy to clean. However, taking care of your soapstone countertops is crucial to ensure they maintain their beauty for years to come.

How You Can Properly Clean and Take Care of Soapstone Countertops

Here are a few tips on how to care for your soapstone countertops:

1. Clean Gently

Clean the countertops regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish of your soapstone.

2. Wipe Off Spills from Your Soapstone Countertop at Once

If you have a spill on your soapstone countertop, you should first blot it up using a clean, dry cloth. If the spill is oil-based, you may need to use a little bit of soap and water to remove it. Once you’ve blotted up the spill, you can rinse it with water and dry it with a clean cloth.

If the spill is still visible, you may need to use elbow grease to remove it. You can opt to use a soft scrub brush or a non-abrasive cleaner to gently scrub away the stain. Once you’ve removed the stain, you can rinse the area with water and dry it with a clean cloth.

3. Apply Food-Safe Mineral Oil Regularly

When it comes to keeping your cutting board in tip-top shape, one of the most important things you can do is apply food-safe mineral oil regularly. This will help to keep the wood from drying out and cracking, and will also help to keep it looking its best.

When applying the oil, use a clean, lint-free cloth. You’ll want to apply it in a thin, even layer and then let it soak in for at least 15 minutes. Afterward, you can either wipe off excess oil or let it soak in thoroughly.

It’s important to note that you should not use olive oil or any other type of cooking oil, as this can go rancid and cause your cutting board to smell bad. Mineral oil is the best option, as it is odorless and will not go bad.

4. Never Put Hot Pots and Pans Directly on the Countertop

Avoid placing very hot pots and pans directly on your soapstone countertops. Use a trivet or hot pad to protect the surface from heat damage.

5. Avoid Scratching the Surface of Your Soapstone Countertop

One of the most important things you can do to keep your soapstone countertop looking its best is to avoid scratching the surface.

Soapstone is a soft stone, and even though it’s durable, it can be scratched by everyday items like knives, pots, and pans. That’s why it’s important to use a cutting board and hot pads when cooking on a soapstone countertop. You should never use harsh cleaning products or scrubbing pads, as these can damage the surface.

If you do happen to scratch your soapstone countertop, there are a few things you can do to fix it. First, you can try sanding the area with fine-grit sandpaper. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a poultice to remove the scratch.

Conclusion

If you’re careful with your soapstone countertops, it will last for many years to come. And if you do happen to scratch it, there are ways to fix it. So don’t be afraid to enjoy this beautiful material in your home. By following these simple tips from Cutstone Company, you can keep your soapstone countertops looking beautiful for years to come.

Cutstone Company can provide you with the most beautiful soapstone countertops for your home in Birmingham. Contact our team to learn more about our products and services!

What to Look Out for When Buying Real Soapstone

Soapstone is a popular material for home renovations because it is very resilient. It is also a firebrick material because it can withstand high temperatures. Soapstone is also impervious to chemicals, acids, and heat, which makes it a good choice for lab tops, acid room sinks, and lab shelving. However, because soapstone is so popular, there are now many cheap imitations on the market.

Some companies are trying to exploit consumers by selling fake soapstone. This fake soapstone includes misnamed or misrepresented varieties of stone, including slates, marbles, granites, and even quartz.

Slate vs. Soapstone

Some companies lie to customers by saying that cheap Indian slate is soapstone. Soapstone is supposed to be resistant to acids and heat, but slate is not, and it can get damaged easily. This isn’t very reassuring for people who thought they were buying a product that would be durable and long-lasting.

Slate is a type of stone that is easy to damage. It can be stained, etched, chipped, and cracked easily. Soapstone is much more resistant to wear and is easy to keep clean.

How to Identify Authentic Soapstone

When buying soapstone, it is important to ensure that you work with a reputable distributor or fabricator. There are many fake products on the market, so it is important to spot potential fakes. Another important thing to do is to examine the soapstone before buying it to ensure it is real. 

Here are the qualities of soapstone that guarantee its authenticity:

  • Soapstone is a soft rock that can be easily scratched with a fingernail.
  • Soapstone is a unique material that feels cool to the touch, even at room temperature.
  • Soapstone is a soft rock with a soap-like feel and a pearly or silky luster. It can be either polished or unpolished.
  • Soapstone is typically a gray, green, or blue color. If the stone in question is not one of these colors, it is likely not soapstone.

To test if a soapstone sample is authentic, first examine it for any stains. If there are none, put a drop of white vinegar on the surface and wait an hour. If the vinegar has caused any etching or damage, then the soapstone is not authentic. If you are unsure about a stone, ask the distributor or fabricator about it. Make sure their answers align with what true soapstone is. This way, you can be sure you are getting the real thing.

Why It’s Important to Tell Real Soapstone from Fakes

If you choose to go with a lookalike soapstone option rather than authentic soapstone, be sure to do your research on any special considerations or maintenance that may be required. Remember that faux soapstone products will not offer the same qualities or function as real natural soapstone. 

Other types of stone will need to be specially treated. They may not work for some intended applications due to the differences in fabrication options, durability, and stain-, heat-, or acid-resistant. While other materials may be good options for your home improvement project, always consider the pros and cons of installing fake soapstone countertops before making your final decision.

At Cutstone Company, we believe that a great space deserves beautiful countertops.  From the single vanity to the large commercial project, we desire to partner with clients on their projects to make them successful.  We’ve been committed to excellence for more than 15 years and look forward to beautifying Alabama for many more to come! If you need soapstone countertops in Birmingham, AL, get in touch with us! Schedule a free consultation now!

Impressive Reasons Why You Should Get Soapstone Countertops

People have enjoyed soapstone for ages all across the world. During the Stone Age, Scandinavian inhabitants utilized it to build implements. 

Four hundred years ago, Native Americans made bowls out of it. And today, installing soapstone worktops in kitchens and bathrooms is a common choice for discriminating homeowners.

The sections below present impressive characteristics of soapstone countertops that will encourage you to invest in them.

The Make-Up of Soapstone

Talc dominates the composition of the metamorphic rock known as soapstone. Depending on the mine from where it was sourced, it may also contain various proportions of other minerals, including chlorite, amphiboles, quartz, and carbonates.

The Formation of Soapstone

Soapstone is created in regions where tectonic plates are subducting through the processes of metamorphism, which is the alteration of minerals in a rock typically brought on by heat and pressure, and metasomatism, which is the chemical change of a rock. In layman’s terms, one plate moves under another and being forced to sink results in the formation of the rock—while the stone is altered by heat, pressure, and the inflow of fluids.

Where to Find Soapstone Mines

Although it may also be found in Finland, Southern India, and Virginia, the United States, the majority of the architectural soapstone used in the US and Canada comes from quarries in Brazil. 

The state of Minas Gerais, which lies far from the Amazon Rainforest, is where all Brazilian soapstone is quarried. Both Brazil and the US have less than ten operational soapstone quarries. 

To put that in context, only in Carrara, Italy, are there approximately 80 active marble quarries.

Characteristics of Soapstone

Although the manner people have used soapstone over the years may have changed, its worth has not.

  • Design

The Rich, textural beauty of soapstone makes it a remarkably adaptable material. It may be incorporated into any design and is not just for usage in the kitchen or bathroom. Three colors—gray, black, and green—give you a wide range of lovely design possibilities.

Soapstone is distinct from its competitors in that it is softer and more flexible, making it less likely to break or chip. In comparison to other countertop materials, it can withstand more heat and weight. 

Because soapstone is non-porous, homeowners also don’t have to worry about their countertops getting stained by liquids like wine, oil, or coffee.

  • Resistance to Heat

Its resilience to heat is one of the qualities that made soapstone so well-liked by people centuries ago. Because soapstone would not be destroyed by fire, Native Americans utilized it to construct cooking utensils and tools. 

The same is true today, and soapstone readily absorbs heat without splitting and is invulnerable to scorching pans, steaming coffee cups, and even boiling water bowls. 

Soapstone’s ability to withstand heat is likely its most significant and outstanding long-term advantage.

  • Environmental Responsibility

Since soapstone is entirely natural, it doesn’t require any abrasive chemicals for cleaning or sealing, though you might opt to do so to make your counters sparkle. 

Thanks to your soapstone countertops, your home or the environment won’t be exposed to any foreign toxins.

  • Safety

Countertops made of soapstone are naturally safer and cleaner than those made of other materials since they are non-porous. 

Soapstone countertops are extremely safe and simple to clean because bacteria can’t permeate them as quickly as they do other materials. All you need to maintain clean and beautiful counters is some mild soap, warm water, and a sponge.

Conclusion

Any kitchen or bathroom will look fantastic with soapstone countertops. They are beautiful, durable, and easy to care for. It is a great option if you are looking for a countertop that will last a lifetime.

Get your high-quality soapstone countertops in Birmingham at Cutstone Company! We provide residential and commercial custom countertops that are perfect for your home or office. Contact us now to learn more.

The Best Choice between Soapstone and Granite for Your Kitchen

When it comes to choosing countertops for your home, there are many options to choose from. But two of the most popular choices are soapstone and granite. So, what are the pros and cons of each? Read on to find out.

Appearance

  • Soapstone

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock composed of talc and other minerals. It is named soapstone because it feels like soap. Soapstone typically has a gray, blue, green, or brown color with variegated veining.

  • Granite

Granite is a solid and durable igneous rock, which makes it perfect for kitchen countertops. It is also stunning, with unique patterns made up of either small, dense mottling or large swirls of multicolored red, pink, gray, brown, and white in different combinations. 

When you purchase granite, you can choose the specific slab you want, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Types

  • Soapstone

Soapstone is a type of stone that is soft and easy to carve. There are two main types of soapstone: artistic and architectural. Artistic soapstone is used for carving sculptures, and architectural soapstone is used for countertops.

  • Granite

There are many types of granite, including quartz countertops. There are six main categories:

• Amphibole (green or black)

• Biotite (brown or black)

• Potassium Feldspar (pink)

• Muscovite (gold or yellow)

• Feldspar (off-white)

• Quartz (milky white)

Each category has many sub-categories.

Maintenance

  • Soapstone

Soapstone is a type of stone that is used for countertops. It is generally less expensive than granite and requires less maintenance.

Soapstone is a beautiful and unique material that is perfect for use on countertops. After you install soapstone countertops, simply rub the material with mineral oil to help bring out its natural veining. 

  • Granite

Granite is a natural stone that is softer than synthetic products. It needs to be sealed with a water- or oil-based sealant after installation and then once or twice a year to maintain its sheen and resist staining. 

You can purchase commercial granite and marble sealants from home supply stores or tile and stone retailers. 

Before sealing the stone, wipe it with a clean, damp cloth and let it dry, so you don’t seal in dust or food particles. Apply a thin layer of the sealant with a sponge or paint roller across the stone. Let it sit for about five minutes, then wipe with another clean, dry cloth. Allow the countertop to dry for 24 hours before using it.

Durability

  • Soapstone

One of the disadvantages of soapstone is that it is soft and therefore prone to scratches. However, this can be remedied by sanding it and treating it with mineral oil and fine-grit sandpaper, which will give it back its sheen.

  • Granite

Granite is the clear winner when it comes to durability. It is much more resistant to scratches than soapstone, making it a better long-term investment.

Resistance

  • Soapstone

A soapstone countertop is more resistant to stains and chemicals than granite. Soapstone is not affected by acids or alkalis, so tomato juice, wine, and vinegar will not discolor the stone. Also, you can put a hot pot on soapstone and it won’t damage the surface.

  • Granite

Granite is a heat-resistant and porous stone, meaning that it can stain if liquids or food are left on the surface for too long. However, granite is slow to stain, so it is still fairly resistant to marks and scuffs.

Which Is the Best Choice?

It can be difficult to decide between the two types of countertops, but the best way to decide is to think about what type of countertop is going to best suit your needs. 

Consider how you will be using the countertop, how often it will be used, and what type of maintenance you are able to do.

If you need a countertop that is going to be heat resistant and durable, then granite is the best option. However, quartz is the best option if you are looking for a cheaper countertop that still has a luxurious look.

Wrapping Up

There are pros and cons to both soapstone and granite countertops. Soapstone is a natural and environmentally friendly material, but it can be more expensive than granite. 

Granite is more durable and has a more uniform surface than soapstone, but it can be more expensive. Ultimately, it depends on the individual’s needs and preferences which countertop material is best for them.

For the best kitchen countertops in Birmingham, AL, check out Cutstone Company. We offer custom residential and commercial kitchen countertops. Get in touch with us. 

5 Reasons Why You Should Invest in Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone countertops are metamorphic rocks. They have a surface that feels similar to soap. The source of soapstone is generally quarried stone that comes from mines. It has the quartz mineral called talc in high percentage. These factors contribute to why soapstones are used as countertops in kitchens.

In this guide, we’ll go over some of the biggest reasons why you should invest in soapstone countertops.

1) It’s Eco-Friendly 

Sustainability has become a priority for many people. With so many concerns about the environment and environmentalism, people have started to pay more attention to the materials they use.

Soapstone is a nontoxic material, which is a big bonus. Things like marble and granite are toxic and they pose a lot of health and environmental risks. Soapstone is also a renewable resource, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

2) It’s Completely Concrete

Soapstone is much more natural than any other countertop materials. It’s one of the most naturally occurring materials that is available. It’s not a synthetic material like quartz or granite, but it’s also not a natural stone. It’s somewhere in-between.

A lot of people prefer concrete to fully natural stone because they want the natural look but want to avoid issues like finding natural stone that’s perfectly flat. Soapstone gives you the best of both worlds. This is one of the reasons why soapstone countertops are so popular.

3) It’s Perfectly Stable

Countertops can get damaged easily. They get scratched, cracked, and even dented. They need to be sturdy, but still be able to handle being moved and pushed around a lot.

Since soapstone is a metamorphic rock, it’s very stable and sturdy. It’s very durable and very strong. It’s not like granite or marble, which are both very soft. It won’t get damaged as easily as other countertop materials. It’s also easier to care for.

4) It Comes in Different Styles

Soapstone is a very versatile material. It’s not limited to just being used as countertops. It can be used to build furniture, building materials, and in many other ways. This means that if you want to use soapstones for your kitchen, you can find soapstone to meet a variety of different requirements.

It’s a very versatile material, which means that you can get different styles of soapstone and even different colors of soapstone for your countertops. You don’t need to worry about it being monotonous or boring like you might with other countertop materials.

5) It’s Very Affordable

If you’re looking to save money on your countertops, you should be considering soapstone. It’s one of the cheaper countertop materials you can buy. It’s not cheap, but it’s much cheaper than a lot of other countertop materials.

If you’re trying to keep your costs as low as possible, soapstone is a good option for you. It’s not the cheapest material, but it’s cheaper than some of the more expensive materials. There are also a lot of ways that you can pay for soapstone countertops.

Conclusion

Soapstone countertops are a great choice if you’re looking to purchase new countertops. They’re very durable, strong, and sturdy so they can take a beating. They’re also very eco-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about negatively affecting the environment.

Consider using a soapstone countertop for your kitchen. At Cutstone Company, we offer soapstone countertops for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Get in touch with us now for more details. 

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