While granite is a popular choice for kitchen remodels, soapstone has many of granite’s favorite qualities and more. Because granite has become common place in so many kitchens, homeowners look to soapstone for something unique and durable.

Similarities to Granite

To begin with, soapstone offers the best of granite’s attributes. You might be surprised to learn soapstone has the same characteristics that made you consider granite. 

Natural Stone

Both are completely natural stones. Granite is primarily quarried in Brazil, Italy, India, and China. While not all pieces are suitable for countertops, the stone is found all over the US because most of the earth’s crust is made of granite. If you have a “rock outcropping” in your yard, the stone is most likely granite.

Soapstone is also quarried in Brazil and India, with other quarries in Finland and the United States (Virginia). This soapstone is actually one of the first to be mined.

Granite vs. Soapstone: Both Heat Safe

Both stones are heat resistant, meaning you don’t need to use a trivet when placing hot pots or dishes directly on the surface. Homeowners love this simple convenience for their countertops. While you might still grab something to protect your beautiful granite countertops, this is completely unnecessary with soapstone.

High Resale Value of Granite & Soapstone

Natural stone has become almost a requirement for resale in the NJ area. Buyers are looking for granite, marble, or soapstone when they invest in a new home. In fact, not having a high-quality countertop can greatly reduce the value of your home at selling time. Because granite is so common, soapstone will stand out to buyers when they compare listings.

Reasons to Love Soapstone

In addition to the qualities shared with granite, soapstone has unique properties that make it a favorite for during kitchen remodel. Because traditional soapstone is softer than other stones, some buyers may worry about scratches. However, scratches are easily removed, and soapstone’s other qualities make it a great choice for your home.

Non-Porous

Compared with granite, soapstone is non-porous and will not require the regular sealing necessary to protect granite. We do recommend using our signature wax or oil so the soapstone can age or patina uniformly, but the wax doesn’t affect the non-porous properties of the stone. Because it’s non-porous, soapstone is easy to clean with soap and mild water.

No Staining

With granite, you need to quickly clean up messes to make sure your countertop doesn’t get stained over time (depending on your color choice). While you should always wipe up liquids, soapstone will not stain from spills. Some homeowners even test their sample pieces with vinegar, tomato juice, red wine to ensure the stone remains clean.

Rare Color Options

While it has fewer color options as granite, soapstone stands out with its marble-like veining and rustic charm. This stone has a warmth that looks right at home in a farmhouse, but the dark color is elegant enough for a more formal setting, as well.

Texture

Don’t forget about the traditional soap-y, velvet-y texture that gives soapstone its name. The higher talc content that makes it softer also gives it the unique feel families love when incorporating soapstone as countertops in their kitchen or even tiles in their bathroom.

We’re ready to answer all your questions about soapstone. Schedule an appointment in our NJ showroom by emailing jay@gardenstatesoapstone.com.