Francini Inc. Blog

 
11Oct

The Stunning Style of Soapstone

11 Oct, 2017 | Soapstone |

Soapstone is a type of metamorphic rock sourced from quarries in various areas around the world. It is mainly composed of talc, a soft clay mineral that is mostly magnesium silicate. This gives the stone a silky, soft feel similar to a bar of soap. Lower talc content soapstone is referred to as architectural grade. It is handsome, durable, antibacterial, and fire resistant, making it well suited for use as a building material and for interior design applications.

Uses for Soapstone in Architecture

Countertops

Soapstone is a strong and attractive countertop and backsplash material often used in residential and commercial kitchens and bathrooms. It comes in a variety of grey and greenish tones, ranging from very light to charcoal.

Fireplaces

This stone is a very popular material for fireplace surrounds, mantles, and hearths. In some areas of Northern Europe, soapstone fireplace systems are designed and constructed to heat an entire home. Soapstone naturally absorbs and radiates heat. Such fireplaces are capable of keeping a room at a comfortable temperature all day and night.

Softer soapstone can be carved, adding a personal sculptural element to your fireplace surround.

Building Surfacing Material

Soapstone has been historically used to clad building exteriors for protection from the elements. It can also be used as a walkway paving material on exteriors or as a flooring and wall cladding material for showers and other areas exposed to moisture.

Caring for Soapstone

Soapstone is relatively maintenance free. This material can be left untreated or be sealed. Left untreated, soapstone will age naturally. It will take on a more rustic patina that many find visually appealing. Or, it can be sealed with mineral oil or wax, which brings out the natural veining and darkens it slightly. The oil or wax helps to maintain a uniform appearance.

It is recommended that you only clean soapstone counters with soap and water rather than using chemical cleaning agents.

Pros and Cons of Soapstone

This material is exceptionally beautiful and versatile. It has a naturally soft feel that is comfortable. As mentioned before, it is antibacterial, fire resistant, and radiates heat. It is also non-porous and easy to clean.

The colors and veining of soapstone are limited compared to marble or granite. Also, it is a bit softer than granite. Care should be taken not to chip the surface by dropping heavy objects on it.

Cost of Soapstone

The cost of soapstone is just slightly higher per square foot than granite or quartz. When you are budgeting for your project, expect to pay approximately $20 more per square foot when using soapstone.

If you really want to add a unique design element to your home or place of business, soapstone is a great option. It is stylish and makes a subtle, yet elegant statement.

Want to stay up to date on the latest kitchen trends and design inspirations?  Click here to sign up for our newsletters.

Soapstone Boise | Boise Soapstone | Boise Kitchen | Boise Countertop

Related

Increase the Value of your Boise Home with High-Quality Stone

Increase the Value of your Boise Home with High-Quality Stone

The value of housing in Boise has been soaring ever upward over the past couple of years, with a 17....

Read More >
The Most Popular Countertop Surface Isn't What You Think It Is

The Most Popular Countertop Surface Isn't What You Think It Is

Granite and Quartz countertops are considered top of the line in quality. They are both preferable t...

Read More >
The Elements of Outdoor Kitchen Bar Design

The Elements of Outdoor Kitchen Bar Design

You have an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and plenty of space to relax and play lawn games, but you'...

Read More >
How Granite Can Make Your Backyard Into A Private Retreat

How Granite Can Make Your Backyard Into A Private Retreat

With summer coming up quickly, we all dream of a relaxing place to spend beautiful summer evenings b...

Read More >
Kitchen Design Trends for 2023 in Houston

Kitchen Design Trends for 2023 in Houston

2023 is set to be an exciting year for kitchen design trends. At Francini Inc., we have noticed a fe...

Read More >
Building a home? Understanding the Design Build Process with Eddie Rider

Building a home? Understanding the Design Build Process with Eddie Rider

Based in North Carolina, Eddie Rider of Eddie Rider Designs, has spent more than 20 years curating v...

Read More >

Stay In Touch

Name

Article Categories