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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.
Most of our customers choose to apply mineral oil to the surface of
their Soapstone countertops, but it is not necessary. Mineral oil is
applied to the surface, only to darken the stone and enhance its
natural beauty. Soapstone appears naturally as a light grey, chalky
looking surface. When mineral oil is applied to the soapstone, the
surface will darken to dark charcoals and blacks, and the veining in
the soapstone 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 apply mineral oil, or if you forget to apply mineral
oil. Over time the stone will darken naturally on its own. You will
notice the soapstone darkening quicker around the high use areas, such
as the sink, stovetop, prep areas, etc. If initially you 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.
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 using 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 soapsrtone 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 “scratch” can be
removed just by applying mineral oil to the area. Many of our customers
like the patina that develops over time with their soapstone
countertops.
For more information on Teresina Soapstone or to
place an order, please call (916) 577-1976.
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