Soapstone is a natural stone that has been utilized for centuries because of its beauty and durability. Soapstone’s charm and character only increase as it develops a natural patina over time. Many homeowners love how this stone can transform and enhance the aesthetics of any space. With simple, regular maintenance or even a professional restoration every few decades, your soapstone will look beautiful for years to come.

The Evolution of Soapstone Patina

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc, which gives Traditional Soapstone a soft and “soapy” texture. Over time, soapstone develops a natural patina that changes its appearance over time, often darkening and becoming richer in color. 

1. Initial Appearance: Before any oil or waxing, traditional soapstone typically has a light/medium gray color with subtle to moderate veining. This initial look is beautiful in its own right, but it will patina or darken naturally in areas with higher use.

2. Patina Development: As soapstone ages, it gradually darkens and develops a rich, deep Black color. This process can take several months to a few years, depending on the level of exposure to oils and other substances. Fabricators and installers, after installing, apply Soapstone Wax to create an even patina across the entire counter or tabletop.

3. Enhancing the Patina: To accelerate the aging/patina or darkening development, some homeowners choose to continue applying oil or wax to the surface. This not only enhances the color but also provides a protective layer that helps to repel stains and scratches. When you don’t use an oil or wax, the patina will develop in some areas more quickly than others, most often around the sink or stove where the countertop gets the most use. 

Caring for Soapstone Over Time

Soapstone is relatively low maintenance compared to other natural stones, but it still requires some care.

1. Cleaning: Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water is usually sufficient to maintain soapstone. Avoid using abrasive sponges to protect your surface from scratches, but since soapstone is non-porous, it can handle chemical cleaners if necessary. However, if you use chemicals for cleaning this may reverse the aging/patina or darkening process slightly, especially in the beginning life of soapstone.

2. Oiling or Waxing: Applying soapstone oil or wax periodically can help to maintain the patina. This is especially recommended for high-traffic areas such as kitchen countertops. Simply apply the oil or wax with a soft cloth, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe off any excess.

3. Avoiding Damage: While soapstone is resistant to heat and stains, traditional soapstone can scratch or ding. Although this adds character giving an authentic, organic, aged look. You should use cutting boards when preparing food. Soapstone is very consumer friendly and most of the scratches can be sanded out easily with a 120-grit sandpaper and disappear once the wax or oil is reapplied.

Professional Restoration: Bringing Soapstone Back to Life

Did you just move into a home with soapstone, and you want to make sure it looks the best it can look? Or maybe it’s just been a few years since you installed it, and you know it’s seen better days. The good news is that soapstone will look brand new with professional restoration.

1. Assessment: At Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops, we begin the restoration process begins with a thorough assessment of the soapstone to identify any areas of damage or moderate wear. 

2. Sanding: One of the key steps in the restoration process is sanding the surface. This removes any deep scratches or imperfections and creates a smooth, even surface. For deep scratches we recommend using 80 grit sandpaper, then 220, and finish with 120 grit.

3. Oiling or Waxing: After sanding, the soapstone is typically treated with soapstone oil or wax to restore and enhance the patina. This not only brings back the stone’s natural beauty but also provides a protective layer that helps to prevent future damage.

Ready to Bring Soapstone into Your Own Home?

Soapstone is a beautiful and versatile natural stone that brings warmth and elegance to any space. Its rich patina developed over time adds to its charm and makes it a beautiful choice for countertops, sinks, and other applications. With proper care and maintenance, soapstone can last for decades, and professional restoration can bring it back to like-new condition if needed. Whether you are considering soapstone for your home or looking to restore an existing installation, call Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops to discuss your next step.