There are many options on the market for kitchen countertops. Soapstone and quartz kitchen countertops are among them. They are two of the most popular options for residential kitchens. They are less expensive and more durable options as compared to all other options available on the market. Also, they give a real estate look to your kitchen.

So, if you’re planning to remodel your kitchen, consider these two options. Both of them have their own positive and negative aspects. Read on to know more about them, and be an informed buyer at the showroom.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is an eco-friendly stone. And it has been in use for years in homes. Soapstone gives a historic yet modern look to the kitchens. The mineral talc in it makes it relatively soft.  It is softer than quartz but is much denser. The soapstone particles are densely packed together, making it compact. All in all, it is hard, heavy, and resistant to stain.

Pros And Cons

The warm-looking soapstone doesn’t require a sealant to protect its color over time. It is stain and heat resistant. So, you can use it in the construction of the fireplace as well. Due to its high density, it is resistant to bacterial growth, which is a good thing for the kitchen.

However, due to its heaviness, DIY countertop installation is difficult, and in most cases, you require professional installation. It naturally darkens over time, giving your countertop an antique appearance. Moreover, the main downside of the soapstone is its tendency to scratch and dent. Also, soapstone being soft is vulnerable to cutting marks when you cut the food directly on the countertop.

What Do Soapstone Countertops Cost?

If you’re planning to install a soapstone countertop on your own, then raw soapstone slabs will cost you up to $45-$85 per square foot. And the price range for professionally installed soapstone countertops is $95-$150 per square foot.

Buying Guide For Soapstone: Countertops

The primary colors that soapstone comes in are:

• Soft white
• Light gray
• Deep Charcoal

The color options are wide depending upon your region. Also, it does have different designs and mottling over it.  But keep in mind that the color darkens over time. For instance, a pale gray will convert into a dark black one within 6-7 months.

Soapstone Countertop Care

• Soapstone is soft and hence easy to clean. But to prolong its darkening process, you can apply mineral oil once a week over it.
• Also, to get rid of the soapstone’s dry looks that develop over time, apply mineral oil once a year.
• Most importantly, use trivets to avoid scratches and further damage due to heavy pots and pans.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is a man-made, engineered stone. It is basically made up of 93% quartz particles mixed with resins, polymers, and pigments. You can install quartz in your kitchen as an alternative to marble and granite. You can easily get exact copies of natural marble with similar mottling.

Moreover, it is better performing and more adaptable. Also, it requires no annual sealing.

Pros And Cons

Quartz has a glossy, lustrous appearance and requires no annual sealing. And due to its non-porous nature, it is a stain and scratch-resistant countertop material. Also, it is much harder than soapstone. You can get a wide range of options in colors as well. The uniform quartz slab will not get damaged due to direct or indirect heat.

However, it is much more expensive than soapstone. And it requires professional installation due to its heaviness.

What Do Quartz Countertops Cost?

As Quartz requires professional installation, it is expensive and can cost you around $60-$100 per square foot.

Buying Guide For Quartz Countertops

You can get a variety of color options for quartz, choose according to your kitchen type and the color of your cabinets. All the color options are not too shiny, neither too dull.  Also, keep in mind that quartz slabs are heavy. So, you need them to be fabricated at the showroom.

Quartz Countertop Care

• Quartz slabs are super easy to clean. All you need is dishwashing soap, water, and a soft cloth.
• Also, they do not need sealing or mineral oils. The slabs are hard and won’t lose their color over time.

If you have made your mind, go to a quartz countertop contractor Rockville and ask for quartz and soapstone colors to choose a color that matches with your kitchen theme.