Evaluating the differences between soapstone and wholesale granite countertops can help you choose the right kitchen and bathroom materials for your project. Granite offers varied colors and patterns, while soapstone uses solid, neutral colors. Soapstone gives a softer, matte finish, and polished granite provides shine. Here is a comparison between granite and soapstone countertops:
Material Differences
Granite is created when lava cools and solidifies beneath the earth’s surface over time. This cooling process gives granite slabs their unique mix of minerals, resulting in a wide range of colors and patterns. Soapstone consists of talc, which gives it a soft, milky appearance. The talc also gives soapstone its signature matte finish, free from visible veins or flecks. Granite offers unique colors and patterns, while soapstone uses a consistent, understated look; both are good for countertops.
Durability Comparison
Granite ranks higher than soapstone on the Mohs hardness scale, measuring a stone’s resistance to damage and scratching. Soapstone remains chemically inert despite its soft composition, which means acids like lemon juice or vinegar do not etch or discolor it, making it especially useful in a kitchen. Your choice should match how you plan to use your kitchen or bathroom surfaces and the durability you require.
Appearance and Style
Wholesale granite countertops can be customized to suit your aesthetic vision. Specific granite varieties like Blue Bahia or Verde butterfly showcase particular minerals and colors. Some slabs feature large, bold patterns, while others have a more consistent, even-toned look. With granite, you can integrate each slab with your design, making it an ideal choice for most decorative styles. Stone fabricators adjust cutouts, edging styles, and finishes to make granite surfaces unique to your home. Soapstone provides consistent slabs with a muted palette, suitable for utilitarian, minimalist styles.
Installation Process
Granite countertops are supported by thick plywood cabinets installed as engineered slabs. These components add structural support for heavy granite. Soapstone weighs less than granite, which may enable a more straightforward installation. Installers do not have to reinforce cabinets with extra plywood or engineered quartz. Installing soapstone takes fabricators less time because they do not have to cut out veining and pattern irregularities before placing the slabs to align their appearance.
Care Requirements
Ongoing maintenance differs between granite countertops and soapstone. Granite requires the occasional application of a penetrating sealer to defend against stains and etching and protect its surface. Test stone absorbency with a water droplet test. Food-safe mineral oil wiped onto soapstone restores its soft sheen and helps disguise scratches for a uniform matte appearance. Hydrophilic soapstone slabs may need more frequent oiling than denser soapstone varieties. Working with installers and stone fabricators helps establish a maintenance regimen for your chosen material.
Invest in Wholesale Granite Countertops Today
Understanding granite and soapstone can help you pick the right material for your kitchen and bath countertops. Decide which stone’s characteristics fit your needs and aesthetics. You can view slabs in person to see the subtle color, veining, and texture shifts. Contact a knowledgeable wholesale granite countertops provider who can guide you in choosing the right surface materials for each space today.
