Selecting the right countertop material can be a hard process. There are so many options,
and all of them have their unique benefits and qualities. If you have been looking into
different options for your renovation, you probably saw that the choice boils down to
soapstone vs. granite.
Soapstone and granite are materials that offer durability and style to the space while also
being low-maintenance. Keep reading to find out the advantages and disadvantages of each
option and decide which one fits in with your lifestyle and needs.
An Introduction to Soapstone
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock, meaning it was created in the crust of the earth over
millions of years due to environmental factors such as intense heat and pressure. The heat
and pressure melt the existing minerals and condense them into a strong and resilient stone.
Soapstone is famous for its distinct appearance and properties.
Soapstone is composed primarily of talc, chlorite, and magnesite. Due to its high talc
content, it feels smooth and silky to the touch. This unique texture is the reason for its name.
As opposed to granite, soapstone has a subtle and muted color palette. While granite is
available in lighter and brighter shades, soapstone often comes in soft shades of gray,
green, and black. Soapstone is a perfect choice if you want to invoke a cozy or moody
feeling in the space.
Soapstone has been utilized for a myriad of reasons for centuries, ranging from ancient
cookware to modern and sleek countertops. Its ability to preserve its popularity is a
testament to its timeless beauty and durability. Moreover, it is highly heat resistant, making it
a useful option in kitchens.
An Introduction to Granite
Granite is an igneous rock and has a more vibrant appearance which has stolen the hearts
of many homeowners. Moreover, its durability and strength make granite one of the most
sought-after stones, especially for high-traffic areas.
Granite forms deep within the Earth’s crust as molten lava cools slowly. As the lava cools,
the minerals recrystallize and interlock into each other, resulting in a very dense and tough
stone with a unique texture and color palette. One of the biggest advantages of granite is the
wide range of colors and patterns it offers. Slabs with bold, thick speckles will be the
centerpiece of the room, whereas ones with dainty veins will add a classic look.
Moreover, granite is known for its immense strength and durability. It is highly resistant to
scratches and heat. Therefore, it is a go-to for areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Its
denseness has slight drawbacks. For example, it is a very heavy stone and requires strong
cabinetry and support. However, its advantages far outweigh any potential disadvantages.
Aesthetic Appeal and Natural Beauty
While both stones offer timeless beauty, their differences mean that they are suited for
different styles and visions.
Soapstone has understated colors and a smooth texture, exuding an earthy, organic feeling.
It is the perfect choice for anyone interested in implementing the natural essence of the
stone in their home. Moreover, it pairs amazingly well with other natural fixtures, such as
hardwood floors or cabinetry. Its subtle beauty makes it a great canvas on which you can
express your personal style.
Granite offers anything ranging from neutral colors like light gray, cream, and beige to bright
and bold hues like green, blue, or red. This makes granite a great option for anyone
interested in making a dramatic splash with their countertops. Its dynamic appearance will
draw all eyes to itself. It can be paired with classic all design styles whether classic or
traditional.
Durability and Strength
Soapstone and granite are both durable options that will offer an excellent surface.
Soapstone is highly resistant to heat, making it an ideal option for kitchens. You can place
hot pots, pans, and dishes straight out of the oven or stovetop without having to worry about
cracking the stone. However, it is also much softer than granite. This means that it is more
prone to scratches or dents. The good news is that the earthy appearance of the soapstone
makes these scratches and dents look lived in rather than imperfections.
Granite is one of the hardest stones used in home improvement projects. It is incredibly
resistant to scratches, abrasions, cracks, or chipping. Its strength ensures that it can handle
daily wear and tear without showing any signs of it. Similarly to soapstone, granite is also
very heat resistant. However, the sealer applied on granite to make it stain-resistant isn’t
heat-resistant. Due to this reason, professionals recommend using trivets or heat pads to
avoid harming the sealer, thus leaving the granite vulnerable to stains.
Maintenance and Care
Maintenance is a key factor to consider before making the final decision. How much or how
often the stone needs to be maintained can be a deal breaker for homeowners looking to
invest as little time as possible in their countertops.
Soapstone requires minimal maintenance. As opposed to most other natural stones, it
doesn’t require sealing or resealing. However, it does need to be cleaned regularly with a
soft cloth or sponge using gentle cleansers, ideally made specifically for natural stones.
Over time, the soapstone will develop a natural patina, which is one of its most appealing
and unique qualities. You can occasionally apply mineral oil to the stone to enhance its
appearance. Oiling the stone will help the color of the stone appear more consistent
throughout the slab.
Granite is relatively low-maintenance. As it has a porous surface, it needs to be resealed
periodically. The sealer will act as a protective barrier for the stone, protecting it from dirt and
debris, which could cause stains. While sealing granite countertops is a straightforward
process, it does require some getting used to. Similar to soapstone, granite needs to be
wiped clean regularly to avoid the accumulation of dirt or minerals from hard water.
Installation Processes
Both of these stones require precision and careful planning for a successful installation. As
soapstone is a softer stone, it is much easier to work with, cut and fabricate. While its
softness makes the installation easier in some areas, it also makes it more difficult. Due to
its softness, it needs to be handled with extra care during its transportation to avoid
scratches.
The weight and denseness of granite mean that it needs to be installed professionally for the
best results. Its rigidity makes installations more complex and its hardness requires special
tools and expertise for a smooth cut.
Cost Comparison
While factors like appearance and durability are important, they are irrelevant if the price of
the stone doesn’t fit in your budget.
Soapstone and granite are both available in a wide range of price points. The price of the
specific slab will depend on many factors, such as the grade of the stone, its origin, its rarity,
and more. Soapstone is usually available in a price range that is between $70 to $120,
whereas granite, in general, costs between $40 to $100 per square foot.
It should be noted that these prices don’t include any customizations, such as edge profiles.
Moreover, prices per square foot can be much higher in the cases of more unique or rare
types like Van Gogh granite.
Comparing Soapstone vs. Granite
We have gone over all of the amazing qualities of both stones. Now, let’s look over their pros
and cons to better illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of soapstone vs granite.
Soapstone develops a beautiful patina over time. The stone will naturally darken, embracing
its gorgeous color. It is also heat-resistant and an ideal choice for areas exposed to high
temperatures. Soapstone is very low-maintenance, it requires no more than wiping it using a soft cloth and lightly oiling the stone every once in a while. However, soapstone is also prone
to scratches and dents. It is available in a limited color range and offers less variation.
One of the most important pros of granite is its extreme durability and strength. It is resistant
to scratches, dents, and stains as long as it is properly sealed. It is available in a wide range
of colors and patterns, and it can last a lifetime if it is properly taken care of. However, it is
higher maintenance and the installation can be more complicated. Moreover, it has more
cost variability with premium options having high price tags.
In short, the choice between soapstone and granite depends on your priorities and your
needs. One is not better than the other; both offer unique qualities with amazing benefits.
Whether you value the everchanging beauty of soapstone or the robust durability of granite
you are investing in a piece that will add value to your home for years to come.
