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Q: Is there any special maintenance required for
soapstone?
A: No. There is actually
not any special maintenance required for soapstone
countertops. Most of our customers choose to apply mineral oil to
the surface of their soapstone countertops, but it is not necessary for
the maintenance of soapstone countertops. Mineral oil can be applied
to the surface only to darken the stone and enhance soapstone's
natural beauty. Soapstone appears naturally as a light grey, chalky
looking surface. When mineral oil is applied to the soapstone,
the color will darken to a deep charcoals or black. For some
varieties of soapstone, the veining will really come to life. The
mineral oil is not sealing the soapstone or protecting the
soapstone, but merely darkening the soapstone.
Q: What happens if you do not oil Soapstone?
A: Nothing negative will happen to your soapstone
if you choose not to apply mineral oil, or if you forget to apply
mineral oil. Soapstone naturally darkens overtime on its own. You will
notice the soapstone darkening faster around the high use areas, such
as the sink, stovetop, prep areas, etc. If you initially leave your
counters un-oiled and months later you want to oil them, that is fine.
You do not have to commit to oiling soapstone the day it is installed.
You can remove oil from the surface with rubbing alcohol or acetone if
you have an accidental oil spill on an un-oiled counter without any
negative effects.
Q: How do you clean soapstone?
A: We recommend using mild soap and water to clean
your soapstone countertops. Because soapstone is dense and non-porous,
it is very germ and bacteria resistant. Soapstone is naturally a
clean surface.
You can use any common household cleaners on your soapstone
counters. You do not have to worry about staying away
from ammonia based cleaners, like you would with granite and
marble.
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Q: Can you set hot objects directly on a
Soapstone surface?
A: Yes, setting hot pots or pans directly on your
soapstone counters will not affect the surface. In Europe, soapstone is
used primarily for the manufacturing of masonry heaters and wood
burning stoves. Setting hot objects on your counters will not
crack, discolor, or harm the soapstone.
Q: Do you need to seal soapstone?
A: No, sealers are used on stones
that are porous, or stones that will etch. Soapstone is not porous and
it will not etch, thus a seal is not necessary.
Q: Can you scratch Soapstone?
A: Soapstone is a very durable, proven countertop
material, but it can be scratched. However, since soapstone does not
have an artificial sealant, scratches can be buffed out with standard
sand paper. Often what appears to be a scratch is actually the mineral
oil evaporating form the surface. Usually the blemish can be removed
just by re-applying mineral oil to the area. Many of our customers like
the patina that develops over time with their natural soapstone
countertops.
For more information on Teresina Soapstone, to
view our showroom or to place an order, please call
(916) 577-1976.
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