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.
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