How does Level 1 Granite compare to soapstone in terms of maintenance?

Hey there! As a Level 1 Granite supplier, I often get asked how our Level 1 Granite stacks up against soapstone when it comes to maintenance. So, I thought I'd break it down for you in this blog post.

1. First, a Quick Intro

Let's start by getting to know our two contenders. Level 1 Granite is a popular choice for countertops, floors, and other surfaces. It's known for its durability, wide range of colors, and relatively affordable price compared to some other natural stones. We offer a variety of options, like Grey Granite Tiles and Tiger Skin White Granite Countertop.

On the other hand, soapstone is a soft, natural stone with a smooth, almost velvety texture. It's been used for centuries in kitchens and other areas because of its heat resistance and unique appearance.

2. Cleaning

Level 1 Granite

Cleaning Level 1 Granite is a breeze. For daily maintenance, all you need is a mild dish soap and warm water. Just mix a little soap in a bucket of water, grab a soft cloth or sponge, and wipe down the surface. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft towel. This helps prevent water spots and keeps the granite looking shiny.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as they can scratch the surface of the granite. Also, stay away from acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, as they can etch the granite over time.

Soapstone

Soapstone is also easy to clean. You can use a simple mixture of water and a gentle, non - abrasive cleaner. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse and dry. One of the great things about soapstone is that it's non - porous, so it doesn't stain easily. However, if you do spill something on it, just clean it up right away.

3. Sealing

Level 1 Granite

Granite is a porous stone, which means it can absorb liquids if not properly sealed. Sealing your Level 1 Granite is an important part of maintenance. Most granite countertops should be sealed once a year, but this can vary depending on the type of granite and how much use it gets.

To seal the granite, first, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Apply the sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Usually, you'll use a small brush or a lint - free cloth to spread the sealer evenly over the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess sealer.

You can test if your granite needs sealing by dropping a small amount of water on the surface. If the water beads up, the granite is still sealed. If it soaks in, it's time to reseal.

Soapstone

Soapstone doesn't require sealing like granite does because it's non - porous. However, many people choose to oil their soapstone to enhance its color and give it a more uniform appearance. Mineral oil is a popular choice for this. Just apply a thin layer of oil to the surface with a soft cloth, let it soak in for a few minutes, and then wipe off any excess. You may need to do this every few months or as needed, depending on how you like the look of the soapstone.

4. Stain Resistance

Level 1 Granite

With proper sealing, Level 1 Granite is quite stain - resistant. But if you spill something like red wine, coffee, or oil on it and don't clean it up right away, it can leave a stain. If a stain does occur, you can try using a granite stain remover. Follow the instructions on the product carefully, and usually, the stain can be removed.

Soapstone

As mentioned earlier, soapstone is non - porous, so it's naturally resistant to stains. However, over time, it may develop a patina, which is a natural change in color due to oxidation. Some people like the look of the patina, while others prefer to keep the soapstone looking fresh by oiling it regularly.

5. Scratch Resistance

Level 1 Granite

Level 1 Granite is a hard stone, so it's relatively scratch - resistant. But it's not completely scratch - proof. Avoid cutting directly on the granite surface, as this can dull your knives and may cause scratches. Use a cutting board instead. If you do accidentally scratch the granite, in some cases, a professional can polish out the scratch.

Soapstone

Soapstone is softer than granite, so it's more prone to scratches. However, many people actually like the way the scratches add character to the soapstone over time. If you're worried about scratches, you can be more careful with what you put on the surface and use cutting boards and trivets.

6. Heat Resistance

Level 1 Granite

Granite is heat - resistant to a certain extent. You can place hot pots and pans on it for a short period without damaging the surface. But it's still a good idea to use a trivet or hot pad, especially for very hot items. Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause the granite to crack or discolor.

Soapstone

Soapstone is extremely heat - resistant. It can handle direct contact with hot pots and pans without any problems. This makes it a great choice for areas near stoves or fireplaces.

7. Long - Term Maintenance Costs

Level 1 Granite

The long - term maintenance costs for Level 1 Granite mainly involve the cost of sealing and occasional repairs if there are scratches or chips. Sealing products can range in price, but on average, it's not too expensive. And if you need to have a scratch polished out, the cost will depend on the severity of the scratch and the professional you hire.

Soapstone

The long - term maintenance costs for soapstone are relatively low. The cost of mineral oil for oiling the soapstone is minimal. And since it's non - porous, you don't have to worry about expensive sealing products.

8. Conclusion

Both Level 1 Granite and soapstone have their own advantages when it comes to maintenance. Level 1 Granite is durable, easy to clean, but requires regular sealing. Soapstone is non - porous, easy to clean, and extremely heat - resistant, and doesn't need sealing.

If you're looking for a stone that offers a wide range of colors and a shiny, polished look, and you don't mind the annual sealing, Level 1 Granite might be the right choice for you. Check out our Grey Granite Floor Tiles and other products for your project.

If you prefer a softer, more natural look and want a stone that's heat - resistant and doesn't require sealing, soapstone could be the way to go.

If you're interested in purchasing Level 1 Granite for your next project, feel free to reach out to us. We'd love to discuss your needs and help you find the perfect granite for your space.

References

• "Granite Countertop Maintenance Guide", The Home Depot
• "Soapstone: A Durable and Attractive Countertop Material", This Old House