You’re in the middle of planning a home renovation project, and you’ve finally reached the point where you need to choose your materials. You’ve been doing your research, and you think you’ve narrowed it down to soapstone vs. marble. But now you’re stuck. Which one should you choose?
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t know that much about soapstone and marble. You might not even be sure what the difference is between the two. Choosing between each one can be tough since both materials are beautiful and have unique properties.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help! This blog post will give you an overview of each type of stone, highlight the key distinctions between the two, and offer some guidance on which one might be the better choice for your project.
What Is Soapstone?
Soapstone is a type of natural stone that is found in metamorphic rocks. It is composed primarily of talc, a mineral known for being soft and slippery. Soapstone has been used throughout history for various purposes, including manufacturing cookware, countertops, and sculptures.
The Pros of Soapstone
- Soapstone is a non-porous material, which means it is resistant to staining.
- Soapstone ages well and has a natural patina
- Soapstone does not require regular sealing or maintenance.
- Soapstone is resistant to acids and alkalis
- Soapstone is heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures.
The Cons of Soapstone
- Soapstone is a soft material and can be scratched or chipped easily.
- Soapstone requires regular cleaning and mineral oil application
- Soapstone is a costly material.
- Some people do not like the feel of soapstone because it is slippery.
Related:
- How to Clean Soapstone: What You Need to Know
What Colors Does Soapstone Come In?
Soapstone is available in many colors, from classic black soapstone to more exotic options like green soapstone, blue soapstone, and red soapstone.
Average Cost of Soapstone Per Square Foot
The cost of soapstone varies depending on the type of soapstone, the quality, and the availability. Generally, soapstone countertops cost between $50 and $150 per square foot installed.
What Is Marble?
Marble is a type of natural stone typically used for indoor applications. It is created when limestone is subjected to high temperatures and pressures. This process causes the limestone to change in composition and structure, resulting in marble with unique physical properties.
The Pros of Marble
- Marble is beautiful and timeless.
- Marble is strong and durable.
- Marble is heat resistant.
- Marble is versatile.
- Marble is used in a variety of applications.
The Cons of Marble
- Marble is a porous material and can be stained easily.
- Marble is a soft stone and can scratch or chip easily.
- Marble requires regular sealing and maintenance.
- Marble is a costly material.
- Marble is susceptible to etching from acidic substances.
What Colors Does Marble Come In?
Marble is available in many colors, from classic white marble to more exotic options like black marble, green marble, and pink marble.
Average Cost of Marble Per Square Foot
The cost of marble varies depending on the type of marble, the quality, and the availability. Generally, marble countertops cost between $60 and $300 per square foot installed.
The Key Differences Between Marble and Soapstone
Now that you know a little about soapstone and marble let’s take a closer look at some of the key differences between the two materials.
Appearance
Marble is available in many colors, from classic white to deep black. Soapstone, on the other hand, is typically gray or green.
Cost
Marble is typically more expensive than soapstone.
Durability
Soapstone is more resistant to scratches and stains than marble.
Heat Resistance
Soapstone can withstand high temperatures without being damaged, while marble is not as heat-resistant in comparison.
The Key Similarities Between Marble and Soapstone
While marble and soapstone have some key differences, there are also a few similarities between the two materials. Both marble and soapstone are:
- Natural stones can be used for a variety of purposes, including countertops, floors, and accent pieces.
- Relatively easy to clean and maintain.
Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you know more about marble and soapstone, you might be wondering which one is the better choice for your project. Of course, that depends on many factors, including your budget, the material’s intended use, and your personal preferences.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, timeless material, and you don’t mind the maintenance that comes with it, marble might be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a more durable and heat-resistant material, soapstone might be a better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is marble made of?
A: Marble is a type of natural stone composed of metamorphosed limestone.
Q: Is marble a good choice for countertops?
A: Yes, marble is an excellent choice for countertops because it is strong, durable, and easy to clean. But, marble is a highly porous material that can be stained easily, requiring regular sealing and maintenance.
Q: Is soapstone cheaper than marble?
A: Soapstone is typically less expensive than marble.
Q: Can soapstone be used for countertops?
A: Yes, soapstone is often used for countertops and other applications where durability and heat resistance are essential. However, soapstone is a soft material and can be scratched or chipped easily, so it requires regular maintenance.
Q: What are the benefits of using marble?
A: Marble’s benefits include its classic appearance, easy maintenance, and heat resistance.
Final Thoughts
Both marble and soapstone have their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. So when you decide which material is suitable for your project, consider your budget, intended use, and personal preferences. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect stone for your needs. So which stone did you end up going with? Leave a comment below and let us know!
