Soapstone or steatite, is a rock that is primarily talc and magnesite and other varieties of minerals. This stone or rock gets its name from its soft and soapy like texture. Soapstone can come in a variety of colors from blues, greens, to grays. Soapstone is one of the many stones used inside the home. Like all natural stones, soapstone requires proper care and maintenance. Silver State Floor Restoration will share how to properly care for soapstone in your home.

Pros & Cons of Soapstone

Soapstone is a fairly durable stone that is resistant to water which makes it a popular stone floor for indoor and outdoor use. Soapstone is also non-porous which makes it hard to absorb moisture which prevents stains. Soapstone is also resistant to acidic chemicals and can be cleaned with most household cleaners. Even though soapstone is a fairly durable material to use in your home, it still has its weaknesses. Soapstone can be easily scratched and etched. When the surface of soapstone gets scratched, indented, and chipped, the stone can be smoothed down. However, this can be done only so many times.

Applying Soapstone Sealer & Other Maintenance

When investing in soapstone it is better to maintain and protect the stone from scratches than repairing the stone too frequently. Soapstone requires a sealer to help protect the stone’s surface from scratches and other damages. Soapstone floors needs to maintain its sealer more than countertops due to the intense exposure. Soapstone flooring needs to be deep cleaned and resealed every three to six months. Soapstone countertops need to be sealed about every six to twelve months. By maintaining the soapstone’s sealer you can prevent scratches and scuffs on the stone’s surface.

Benefits of Sealing Soapstone

However there are other benefits of sealing soapstone than just protecting its surface. Soapstone is oiled to darken its look and to bring out its beauty. When resealing soapstone it will be smoothed down and oiled to enrich its color. However, over time the oil will evaporate and new oil needs to be reapplied every three months. Soapstone uses two major types of sealer. One is a clear sealant that maintains the stone’s natural color. Other sealers can alter the stone’s color, making it appear darker.

How to Clean, Seal & Polish Soapstone

Cleaning and sealing soapstone is fairly simple. You only need to use water to keep the surface clean. However, when cleaning floors and countertops, make sure you dry it afterward. Water can allow residue to build up on the stone. To prevent grease or dirt accumulating on the surface, clean it often. With soapstone, any scratching that occurs, you will want to contact a professional service to come and buff them out. They will then oil and seal the soapstone afterward. A professional has all of the tools and equipment to properly smooth down and seal soapstone. To ensure the longevity of your soapstone, make sure to always maintain its sealer and keep the surface clean.

Tile & Grout Cleaning, Sealing & More in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada

For those who own soapstone in their home and you need professional help protecting and extending the life of your soapstone, contact Silver State Floor Restoration. We provide soapstone cleaning and sealing services and more. To schedule our service, contact Silver State Floor Restoration today.