When it comes to countertops, there can be an overwhelming number of choices. Even when you’ve narrowed your choices down, the final decision can be difficult.
If you’ve narrowed your choices down to soapstone and granite, the information in this article can help you choose between the two.
Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is primarily found in shades of black, white, blue, gray, and green. It’s a plentiful material that is frequently used as a building material throughout the world. Soapstone is a little more expensive than granite, although not by much. The prices can be comparable, depending on the stone. A high-end soapstone may be very expensive but also improves property values significantly.
One consideration is that soapstone will darken with age. Granite will remain largely the same. Some love the patina that soapstone gets with age. Others find it frustrating — it can change the look and feel of a room. It may make them feel as though it’s dirty or stained (which it is not). But some embrace the darkening of soapstone, and some even accelerate the darkening with oil.
Soapstone does not require significant maintenance. It is not easily permeable, so you don’t need to worry too much about staining. However, soapstone is softer than granite. If you’re used to a granite counter, you can easily chip or scratch soapstone. For the most part, this isn’t going to be too dire. Soapstone can be fairly easily polished and refinished. But it is something to keep in mind if you tend to be rough with your cooking implements.
Granite is a more plentiful and popular high-end stone because soapstone is both a little more expensive and a little less durable. At the same time, that also makes soapstone more unique. If you’re looking for a type of natural stone that is going to set your property apart, soapstone might be the best choice.
Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are versatile and durable. While they do still need to be cared for, homeowners don’t need to worry as much about chipping or scratching granite. And like soapstone, granite can be refinished if necessary. Granite comes in a variety of colors: white, black, red, blue, brown, and beige. No two pieces of granite will ever be the same because they are mined in vastly different locations and formed in different ways.
Granite is the most popular option for those who want natural stone counters because there is a lot of granite available, there are a lot of varieties of granite, and granite is very durable. Apart from that, granite also has an elegant and flashy look. While soapstone is warm, cozy, subdued, and sedate, granite can have bright, brilliant colors and crystals. It all depends on the look you’re going for when it comes to your counters — whether you want something more traditional or more modern.
Granite does need to be sealed. While soapstone is naturally nonporous, granite can become stained if not properly sealed. But there are many cleaning solutions made for granite that will also provide sealing. You don’t need to worry about it too much as long as you seal it from time to time. On the other hand, granite is far more heat resistant than soapstone. You will need to be careful when putting hot pans on soapstone, but not when putting them on granite.
It may be worth it sometimes to consider that granite is the most common choice. If you’re thinking about selling your property in a few years, be aware that home buyers are more familiar with granite — both in terms of maintenance and in terms of value.
The Conclusion
Though there are distinct differences between soapstone and granite (such as the patina, heat resistance, and porosity), both of them are excellent choices for any counter. Because of this, many homeowners end up choosing between soapstone and granite on the basis of appearance and what looks best in their kitchen.
One of the easiest ways to make an informed decision about whether you want a soapstone or a granite counter is to go to a counter showroom and take a look at the options. There may be a specific counter option that calls out to you, whether it’s blue-gray soapstone or a warm crystalline red granite.
If you’re trying to decide whether you want a soapstone or a granite countertop, we can help. Come take a look at the selection at Wholesale Granite Direct to weigh your options and determine the right look, feel, and style for your home. We have showrooms in Arlington, Granbury, and Richardson, and we install countertops throughout Dallas/Fort Worth. Contact us today to get started.
