What this covers
Soapstone is a dense natural stone, gray when dry and nearly black when oiled. It is non-porous, so it never needs sealing and shrugs off acids and heat. It is soft enough to scratch, and scratches are sanded out or hidden with oil. Fabrication is straightforward and sinks can be made from the same stone. Owners oil it periodically to keep the dark color even.
When to call
- A farmhouse, traditional or period kitchen.
- A wish for a dark counter that handles heat and acids without sealing.
- Owners who like a surface that develops patina.
What to expect
- ChooseSlabs are viewed; veining ranges from plain to dramatic.
- Template and fabricateTemplating after cabinets are set; cutting, edging and sink fabrication.
- InstallPieces set, seamed and the sink mounted or built in.
- OilThe surface is oiled and the company shows you how to repeat it.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Does it scratch?
Yes, more easily than granite. Light scratches blend with oil; deeper ones are sanded out, which is simple on soapstone.
Why oil it?
Oil or wax darkens the stone evenly and hides marks. It is cosmetic; the stone does not need it to resist water.
Can I set hot pans on it?
Yes. Soapstone handles heat well, which is why it is used in wood stoves.
Related: Marble countertops · Concrete countertops · Butcher block countertops · All cabinets and countertops
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.