Eventually most soapstone countertops will get scratched. If your soapstone countertop becomes scratched, follow these easy restoration steps:
- Most scratches will disappear with a dab of mineral oil. To permanently remove a deep scratch, use 120-grit sandpaper, sand the scratch area in a circular motion until the scratch is almost gone, then use 220-grit sandpaper with water added to the area.
- Once the scratch is sanded away, apply a light coat of mineral oil to the area. Repeat the oiling as necessary - two or three times over the next 72 hours in order to match the coloration of the rest of the stone.
- Oiling will enhance the luster and color of the soapstone, and restore that brand new look once again. Subsequent coats should be re-applied monthly or as needed.
Soapstone Countertops - Better Than Granite Countertops, or Concrete Countertops
Care: Soapstone countertops are non-porous and unlike marble countertops, concrete countertops and granite countertops, do not need to be sealed. The only maintenance for a soapstone countertop is the application of mineral oil to enhance the natural darkening process and ensure uniformity. Upon application of mineral oil, the stone turns a mix of very dark charcoal gray, blackish or dark green tones.
Marble is susceptible to stains and etching, resulting in dull spots and rings. Granite countertops are more resistant to scratches, but are sensitive to acidic foods, and require constant care and careful cleaning. Concrete countertops are sensitive to heat and need to be waxed every 30 days to avoid staining.
Unlike marble and granite countertops, soapstone countertops are virtually heat proof - soapstone is often used to construct masonry heaters due to its excellent thermal qualities. A hot pan from the stove can be placed directly on the soapstone countertop without harm. Although the same is true for a granite countertop, for concrete countertops, the use of a trivet is always recommended. In addition, a concrete countertop is much more susceptible to staining than is soapstone.
Our Countertop Installers Apply the First Treatment
Oiling: Our countertop installers will place an initial coat of mineral oil is applied to quicken the natural darkening (aging) process of the stone. Our countertop installers use mineral oil because it enhances the inherent natural veining characteristics and crystallization details of the stone. To keep this enhanced look, reapply the mineral oil as needed. There is no set rule on how often oiling should be done.
A few days from the first oiling, most soapstone will lighten up. You can re-oil your countertops when it lightens. The soapstone will usually reach its darkest shade after three coats of mineral oil. Every time you oil your countertops, the stone will hold the oil longer than the last. The stone will retain its deepest shade after approximately 6-8 months.
To apply the mineral oil, use a cotton cloth. Apply the oil directly to the stone and use the cloth to spread the oil. Remove excess oil with a dry cloth to bring the stone to the desired feel. To make the next oiling easier, keep the same rag in a zip lock bag. The oil cloth will become saturated and spread the oil easier on the countertops.
Cleaning: Cleaning soapstone countertops is easier than cleaning concrete countertops. To clean soapstone, simply use a damp cloth or sponge with a gentle soap cleanser. Dish soap is the best. For a deep clean, any cleaner will work without harming the stone. If you clean the stone with antibacterial-type cleaners, the mineral oil will be removed and should be reapplied.
In conclusion, the choice of soapstone over a granite, concrete or marble countertop is easy. Care and maintenance is less tedious and once our countertop installers are done, you can enjoy your soapstone countertop for years to come.
Contact our countertop installers in NJ, NY, PA, and DE today!