Most contractors who install countertops in Atlanta can certainly attest to the natural appeal of soapstone—a material that has been used for countertops and other applications such as sculptures throughout the ages. Soapstone counters are made from the quarried stone known as steatite, which is primarily composed of the mineral talc that accounts for the milky or powdery look and feel of the stone. The higher the percentage of talc, the softer the stone and the more conducive for use by sculptors, while the lower the percentage of talc means the harder the stone and the more conducive for use in countertops. In either case, soapstone is softer to the touch than most natural stones used in countertops, though that doesn’t mean it’s not up to the demands of a busy kitchen. The compelling points for soapstone are numerous. Appearance Soapstone is recognizable by its milky appearance, which gives it a somewhat rustic feel when compared with the more urbane and sophisticated look of other stones. This stone has a remarkable feel of warmth that makes it a favorite in rural kitchen settings, but also complements traditional, modern, or eclectic styles as well. Colors range from an almost pure white with a bit of marbling to a much darker charcoal gray and an array of off-white to gray shades in between. Durability Certainly not as hard as other stones, such as granite, soapstone is more pliable, which means that it’s less brittle and thus won’t crack as easily. It also doesn’t require sealing—soapstone is very non-porous—and therefore is much less likely to stain when exposed to red wine or oil spills. Care Given its non-porous quality, soapstone countertops can be easily cleaned with mild soap and a sponge. That same quality means that it’s also a very sanitary countertop, which is good news for those who enjoy cooking with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as meats and fishes that are often associated with the E. coli bacteria. It’s no wonder that those who install countertops in Atlanta will attest to the traditional appeal of soapstone.
Related Articles -
install, countertops, Atlanta,
|