The first building material that was actively used by humans was natural stone. The field of its application is quite wide – from construction to the manufacture of unique jewelry. The variety of types, factors and shades of natural stone allows you to choose a material with the right properties for almost any purpose.
What A Soapstone Slab Is
A soapstone slab is a flat, smooth, and durable piece of stone made from a type of metamorphic rock known as soapstone. Soapstone is composed primarily of talc, chlorite, pyroxenes, micas, amphiboles, carbonates, and other minerals. It is renowned for its unique properties and has been used for various purposes for centuries.
Soapstone slabs are commonly used in construction and design due to their heat resistance, stain resistance, and attractive appearance. Here are some common uses for soapstone slabs:
- Countertops: Soapstone slabs are often used to create kitchen and bathroom countertops. They have a smooth, matte finish that is pleasing to the touch and can withstand high temperatures. Soapstone countertops develop a natural patina over time, which adds to their charm.
- Cooking Surfaces: Soapstone’s ability to retain and radiate heat makes it an excellent choice for use in stoves, fireplaces, and pizza ovens. It can absorb and evenly distribute heat, making it ideal for cooking and baking.
- Sinks: Soapstone sinks are not only functional but also visually appealing. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- Fireplace Surrounds: Soapstone slabs are often used as fireplace surrounds and hearths due to their heat resistance. They can withstand the intense heat generated by a fireplace without cracking or discoloring (about soapston fireplace read here).
- Sculptures and Carvings: Soapstone’s relatively soft nature when compared to other stones makes it a popular choice for carving soppstone sculptures and decorative objects.
- Laboratory Surfaces: Due to its resistance to acids and chemicals, soapstone is sometimes used as laboratory countertops and work surfaces.
- Chalkboards: Soapstone can be ground into a fine powder and used to make chalk. Chalkboards made from soapstone are known for their durability and smooth writing surface.
Soapstone slabs come in various colors (about soapstone colors read here), typically ranging from light gray to green, depending on the mineral composition. Over time, soapstone darkens with use and exposure to oils, giving it a richer, deeper color.
Advantages of soapstone slabs
A variety of methods of processing the natural material allows you to preserve such natural qualities of the stone as:
- durability
- environmental friendliness
- durability
- resistance to environmental influences
- inertness
Where You Can Use Soapstone Slab
Soapstone slabs can be used in baths, swimming pools, and hammams (steam rooms) for various applications due to their unique properties and durability. Here are some common ways soapstone slabs can be applied in these settings:
- Bath Surrounds: Soapstone slab can be used to create elegant and moisture-resistant surrounds for bathtubs. Their natural beauty and smooth surface can enhance the visual appeal of the bath area while providing a water-resistant barrier.
- Shower Walls: Soapstone slab can be used as shower wall panels. They are resistant to water damage and can add a luxurious touch to your bathroom’s design.
- Pool Coping: Soapstone slabs can be used as coping stones around the edge of a swimming pool. Their non-slip surface and resistance to moisture make them a practical choice for this application. They also provide a comfortable and cool surface for swimmers to walk on.
- Hammam Benches: In hammams or steam rooms, soapstone slabs can be used to create benches or seating areas. Soapstone’s heat retention properties can provide a comfortable and relaxing experience for users.
- Steam Room Walls: Soapstone is an excellent choice for the walls of a hammam or steam room. It can withstand high humidity levels and heat, creating a durable and visually appealing environment.
- Sink and Vanity Tops: Soapstone is often used for sink and vanity tops in bathrooms. Its resistance to moisture and staining makes it a practical choice for these high-moisture areas.
- Flooring: While soapstone is less commonly used for flooring compared to other materials like ceramic tiles, it can be an option for bath areas or hammams where its heat retention properties can create a comfortable walking surface.
- Decorative Accents: Soapstone can be used for decorative accents such as soap dishes, carved tiles, and sculptures, adding a touch of elegance to bath and pool areas.
It’s important to note that soapstone is relatively soft compared to some other stone materials, so it may require sealing and regular maintenance to maintain its appearance and durability in high-moisture environments. However, its unique combination of properties, including resistance to heat and moisture, makes it a viable choice for these applications, particularly for those looking for a natural and luxurious aesthetic.
Expert Tip. How to Transport a Soapstone Slab Correctly
Useful information that will save your nerves, money and purchased slabs when transporting them to the installation site or production workshop.
Soapstone slab is quite expensive, it is unlikely that you will be pleased to crack the slab into pieces. So here’s a tip on how to properly transport a soapstone slab.
The usual pyramid for transportation of slabs is two metal posts, fastened together in the shape of a trapezoid. It turns out something like a pointed gable roof, or an open book, put in the form of a shalash. Note that the pyramid in places of contact with slabs, should be equipped with wooden or plastic bars.
Slabs are placed on the pyramid by height in decreasing order. The slabs are placed on the pyramid in such a way that the balance is maintained in relation to the pyramid.
If there are several slabs, make sure that the polished side adjoins the polished side of the other slab. For safety you can put cardboard.
Next is a very important tip, unknown to beginners. When fixing, binding slabs, the straps are passed inside the pyramid between the posts.
It is undesirable to pass the straps outside, because at uneven tightening of the straps the risk of damaging the slabs increases.
Rubber or cardboard pads should be placed under the straps in the places of their contact with the slabs to avoid rubbing of the straps during transportation.
If the outermost slab on the pyramid is polished side outwards, then under the locks of the straps it is necessary to put spacers to avoid scratching the slab polishing.
After the slabs are tied together and the pyramid, it is necessary to fix the pyramid itself. For this purpose, straps are thrown over the pyramid with slabs and fastened to the car body. This will prevent the pyramid from shifting in the body while driving.
Also make sure that the straps are not torn or damaged.
How Much Does A Soapstone Slab Cost
The price of soapstone slabs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the quality of the stone, its source or origin, the thickness of the slab, and regional market conditions. Here are some key factors that influence the price of soapstone slabs:
- Quality and Grade: The quality of the soapstone, including its color, veining, and overall appearance, significantly affects the price. High-quality soapstone with attractive patterns and minimal imperfections tends to be more expensive.
- Source: Soapstone is sourced from different regions worldwide, and the location of the quarry can impact pricing. Some sources may produce soapstone that is considered more desirable due to its color or veining patterns, which can drive up the price.
- Thickness: The thickness of the soapstone slab can vary, and thicker slabs tend to cost more than thinner ones. Thicker slabs may also be more durable and suitable for specific applications like countertops.
- Finish: The finish applied to the soapstone, such as a polished or honed finish, can affect the price. Polished finishes are generally more labor-intensive and may cost more.
- Market Conditions: Regional market conditions and demand for soapstone can also influence pricing. In areas where soapstone is in high demand for construction and design projects, prices may be higher.
As for some of the main producers of soapstone slabs:
- Brazil: Brazil is a significant producer of soapstone, particularly from the state of Minas Gerais. Brazilian soapstone is known for its variety of colors and attractive veining patterns.
- India: India is another major producer of soapstone, with quarries in regions like Rajasthan. Indian soapstone is known for its quality and is often used for carving as well as architectural applications.
- United States: The U.S., particularly Vermont, has a history of soapstone quarrying. Vermont soapstone is famous for its natural gray color and is used in various applications, including countertops.
- Canada: Canada, specifically Quebec and British Columbia, also produces soapstone. Canadian soapstone is known for its high talc content, which gives it a soft and smooth feel.
The prices of soapstone slabs can vary greatly depending on the factors mentioned above and the specific region where you are purchasing them. To get accurate pricing information, it’s advisable to contact soapstone suppliers and quarries directly or consult with local distributors and contractors who work with soapstone.
