Soapstone Countertops - Decidedly Magnificent!
Soapstone countertops may be just the thing you're looking for
in a decorator's dream of a kitchen! Not only do these type
countertops look wonderful, they're also one of the most durable
and maintenance-free countertops you can choose. Read on to find
out more about soapstone countertops and what makes them so
wonderfully appealing.
The mineral used to make soapstone countertops, steatite, comes
from metamorphic rock. This non-porous material offers an ideal
medium for applications such as kitchen countertops because it
does not absorb liquids. Unlike other materials often used for
kitchen countertops, including granite, soapstone countertops do
not stain because of this unusual characteristic.
Another exceptional quality about soapstone countertops lies in
its unique thermal properties. Nearly heatproof, placing a hot
pot or pan directly from the stovetop or oven on it causes no
damage whatsoever. Because of its excellent ability to withstand
heat, this mineral is used not only in soapstone countertops,
but also in a number of other applications including laboratory
counters, oven interiors, grills, and many more.
One of the most remarkable and attractive properties of
soapstone countertops stems from its upkeep. Maintaining
soapstone countertops means nothing more than regularly applying
mineral oil to it with a rag. By keeping the same rag sealed in
a zip-locked plastic bag and reusing it, one maintains the
beauty and luster of soapstone countertops indefinitely. The
oiling of soapstone countertops also creates the added benefit
of it darkening over time to a dark gray and eventually to a
rich, deep black color. Sometimes soapstone countertops develop
deep green markings that come from natural-occurring shadings of
the stone.
Scratches or marring inevitably occurs in soapstone countertops
that receive heavy use. To remedy this, first sand with 120-grit
sandpaper, then go over the mark with 220-grit sandpaper and
water. Rub mineral oil into the area, wait a few hours and apply
more mineral oil. Continue to apply mineral oil over the course
of several days until the soapstone that has been repaired
matches its surrounding areas.
Now that you know more about soapstone countertops, why not do
some research yourself? You may find this unusually appropriate
material just the thing for which you've been looking in a
kitchen countertop. You'll never know, though, 'til you check it
out. The wave of the future in kitchen design may very well be
soapstone countertops. Don't miss out!