ISN'T SOAPSTONE SOFT? WON'T MY COUNTERTOPS SCRATCH?

The simple answer to both these questions is "YES". Soapstone, because of it's mineral composition, is softer than some of the other countertop choices. While some would see this as a disadvantage, it is actually one of the great advantages of Soapstone. Unlike all other countertop choices, most small scratches will disappear in the course of daily use and cleaning. Deeper scratches are easily removed with a light application of mineral oil or in extreme cases a light sanding.

If you want to remove a scratch, it can be removed by lightly sanding with 80 - 180 grit sandpaper. Soft pressure and circular stokes should be used letting the paper do the work. Be careful though, in most cases a scratch is no more than a displacement of mineral oil, which disappears when it is reapplied.

WHAT COLORS DOES SOAPSTONE COME IN?

Currently we are offering Canadian Soapstone that comes primarily in a light grey to a deep charcoal color and Brazilian Soapstone that has a wide range of colors. Please visit our products gallery for a full range of the colors available.

IS SOAPSTONE ONLY USED FOR COUNTERTOPS AND CARVINGS?

The answer to this is emphatically "NO". We are excited to dream with you about the possibilities for your home with Soapstone. Honestly, if you can dream it can be done. We will list a few uses though; sinks and basins, custom integrated vanities, wall and floor tile, back splashes, shower floors, fireplaces, water features, and planters.

WHY IS IT RECOMMENDED TO OIL SOAPSTONE?

Since Soapstone is non-porous, nothing penetrates the surface. When any liquid is spilled or applied to the surface, the Soapstone will darken because the light refracted off the stone. The stone will lighten when the substance is removed from the surface either by evaporation or cleaning. In order to avoid an inconsistent color or tone, we recommend applying mineral oil to the surface of the stone.

HOW OFTEN DOES SOAPSTONE HAVE TO BE OILED?

This question really depends on personal preference. Some people do not oil their countertops as they prefer the lighter look and feel of the stone when it has not been oiled.If you do choose to oil your soapstone though we recommend weekly for the first month. Then twice a month, or less, depending on the use over the next three months. The thin layer of oil will keep the stone a consistent shade of dark gray or green. The oil does evaporate so the stone will lighten with time. Areas around the sink may require more frequent applications depending on use.

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