Replies

1. 
   Bill_Beaty | Feb 01, 1999 09:52am | #1

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   I am considering using soapstone as a kitchen counter top and am curious about comments from those who know. Cost, durability, ease of care, etc. In addition, living in Nothern California, where can I get info?

2. 
   Guest_ | Feb 01, 1999 09:52am | #2

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   What is commonly called 'soapstone' is actually known as serpentine. This is a very fine-grained silicate. The mineral, usually in a sheet structure, is fibrous and quite similar to asbestos. (Asbestos is Chrysotile Serpentine) The bonds between the sheets are weak, therefore it is characterized by platy cleavage.

   The hardness of 'soapstone' is comparable to talc. It's durability--resistance to abrasion--is moderate, so no knife cutting on the countertop. It is decomposed by hydrochloric and sulfuric acids. However, I have seen some forms of this mineral used as countertops in laboratories.

   As for use in a residential kitchen; I'd think it would be alright as long as some type of sealer would be used, primarily to prevent fibers from becoming airborne. I'm not at all certain that an off-the-shelf stone sealer would be adequate.

   Also, during installation, use caution in cutting and handling to avoid inhalation of fibers.

   Once installed, I'd think it easy to care for. A very hot pan, etc., in contact with the soapstone could cause a whitish spot to appear, possibly in the form of a ring, underneath the pan. This would be impossible for you to remove, as the 'burn mark' would extend deep into the stone.

   As for where this is available, you might try a stone slab distributor, or a scientific instrument supply house.