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Facts and Myths
In fabricating soapstone and wood countertops we have encountered a few misconceptions on certain properties of these materials over the years. Here are three of the most frequently asked questions:
- Doesn't soapstone scratch and therefore not make a very good counter surface?
Yes, soapstone is one of the softer stones and will scratch. However, because of its incredible density (actually it is denser than most granite) and forgiving oil finish, scratches are not a big factor. Minor scratches seem to disappear on their own and deeper blemishes can be sanded out much like the synthetic solid surfaces. A new coat of mineral oil seems to refresh and blend. Like an old Pumpkin pine floor or an old leather chair, the soapstone tends to look richer with wear and age. We like to say it is one of the rare materials that seem to look better over time.
- Both soapstone and wood countertops do not seem safe as a food preparation surface.
Actually, both materials may well be on the high end of the safety scale. As mentioned in another section, soapstone is so densely constructed in nature that little or no absorption can take place. It has been the choice of surface material for chemistry laboratory tops for many years because acids and other chemicals did not stain or absorb into the stone. Wood may well be safe for an entirely different reason. Some tests suggest a property in the wood works to inhibit bacterial growth. Also, the mineral oil finish is the only truly safe oil in food preparation areas that we know of.
- Aren't the relatively small slabs that soapstone is quarried in be a limiting factor to kitchen layout?
Our experience has been that the small slab sizes have little effect on kitchen layout and function due to the tight and barely visible seams that are possible with soapstone. Slabs are bonded with colored stone epoxy and sanded to virtually create one piece similar to fine wood joinery. In this sense it gives us more freedom to create!
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