Soapstone is a type of metamorphic rock which contains dolomite, talc and magnesium. The main reason it is called so is because its surface feels just like a bar of soap. Geologically speaking, it is similar to marble which is a material that has been highly valued in people’s homes & buildings as far back as the Hellenistic period. But unlike marble, soapstone is much easier to take care of and cost a lot less as compared to marble surfaces.
Soapstone is scientifically known as steatite. Like diamond, marble and quartz, the material used to make soapstone is found deep below the earth’s surface. Here, it’s subject to heats and pressures of an unimaginable magnitude. It is under these pressures that soapstone is formed deep below the earth’s surface. The material which is used for making soapstone is usually extracted from quarries and geological formations that date back millions of years. And since the eastern side of North America is much older than the western part, it is no surprise that the largest quantities of soapstone in North America are found in New England, Quebec & the Maritime provinces.
This material is quite soft and relatively easy to handle. At the same point of time it is quite durable and can withstand a lot of abuse as well. It has been used as cookware for thousands of years and even for art. There are many elaborate sculptures in the southeastern part of India made from soapstone as well.
But why should anyone consider this material for your countertops? If you spend a lot of time cooking in your kitchen, you will definitely know the type of abuse that countertops go through. What’s more, getting out the tough stains can be quite a task. But soapstone is inert and therefore won’t react with any alkaline or acidic substances. This means that you do not have to worry about spilling anything on your soapstone countertop as all you have to do is wipe it off with a soft cloth to get rid of the stain.
Soapstone countertops are quite aesthetic as well. You could say it resembles marble or wood as well. It comes in quite a few colors won’t really have too much trouble finding a type of soapstone which blends with the decor or color scheme of your kitchen. With soapstone, you get durability, versatility and a unique type of beauty. So what are you waiting for? If you are thinking of changing something in your kitchen to give it a different look, then why not try soapstone countertops investigator.
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