Stone Firebox

What Type of Stone is Suitable for a Firebox?

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

A fireplace is a beautiful addition to any home. It provides warmth and comfort during frosty winter months and adds a cozy ambiance to any room. When building a fireplace, choosing the right materials is crucial to ensure its durability and safety. One major decision to make is selecting the right stone for the firebox. Let’s explore which stones are suitable for a firebox in a fireplace.

Firstly, it is important to understand the function of the firebox in a fireplace. The firebox is the chamber where the fire is contained, and it needs to be able to withstand high temperatures without cracking or deteriorating. Therefore, the stone used for the firebox should have a high resistance to heat.

One of the most popular stones used for fireboxes is granite. Granite is a natural stone that is highly resistant to heat and does not crack or deteriorate easily. It is also durable and easy to clean, making it a popular choice for fireplaces. However, granite can be expensive, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Another suitable stone for fireboxes is soapstone. Soapstone is a natural stone that is known for its heat resistance and ability to retain heat. This means that it will continue to radiate heat even after the fire has been extinguished. Soapstone is also easy to clean and does not require any special maintenance. However, it can be quite soft, so it may scratch easily.

Marble is another stone that can be used for fireboxes. While not as heat resistant as granite or soapstone, marble is still suitable for fireboxes if it is not exposed to direct flames. Marble is a beautiful natural stone that adds elegance and sophistication to any fireplace. It is also durable and easy to clean. Marble that is very veiny may be more likely to crack when heated.

Limestone is another option for fireboxes. Limestone is a natural stone that is relatively affordable and easy to work with. It is also heat-resistant and durable, making it a desirable choice for fireplaces. However, limestone can be prone to scratching and staining, so it requires regular maintenance.

When choosing a stone for a firebox in a fireplace, it is important to consider its heat resistance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Granite, soapstone, marble, and limestone are all suitable stones for fireboxes, each with their own unique properties and characteristics. Ultimately, the choice will depend on personal preference, budget, and the overall design of the fireplace. Whatever stone you choose, make sure it is installed by a professional to ensure the safety and longevity of your fireplace.

By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Washable Rugs

Washable Rugs

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

There has been a lot of talk lately about washable rugs. Are they good? Are they bad? Can you really wash them? Are they worth it? Can they go in a regular washing machine? How do you dry them? Here we will answer some questions and examine the pros and cons of washable rugs to learn more about them.

FAQs about washable rugs:

Does a washable rug really fit in my washing machine?

Maybe, maybe not. Most size washable rugs require at least a 4-cu ft. capacity washer. Some larger sizes even need 5 – 7 cu ft. Check the capacity of your washer. If it isn’t big enough, consider having your rug cleaned in your home by a professional.

What is the care and maintenance of washable rugs?

  • Vacuum the rug regularly in between washings.
  • Treat spills both liquid and non-liquid right away.
  • Rotate the rug periodically to prevent wear patterns.
  • Read the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Can you wash all rugs in a washing machine?

No, not all rugs are machine washable. Silk should never be put in a washing machine. Neither should wool, jute, sisal, seagrass, coir, or any rug with a rubber backing. Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your rug.

How can I dry my washable rug?

Most manufacturers recommend either air drying or drying in a dryer with low or no heat. (If the dryer is big enough). The manufacturer’s instructions will best recommend how to dry your rug.

How often should I wash my rug?

Most manufacturers recommend it every 4-6 months but read the care instructions for your particular rug.

What happens if my rug gets a stain in between washing?

If you spill something on your rug, treat the spill right away. If a stain occurs and you can’t wash the rug right away, click on the resources tab of our website and consult the Carpet and Interior Textiles care Guide.

Pros of Washable Rugs:

  • Easy to keep clean – You can (most of the time) just throw them in the washing machine and they come out clean.
  • Environmentally friendly – Some washable rugs are made from recycled polyester or some type of natural fiber.
  • Cost effectiveness – Most washable rugs are treated to be stain resistant or are created from stain resistant materials, giving them a long-life span and the need to be replaced less often.
  • Allergy friendly – Most of these rugs are low pile, so they don’t hold dirt, mites, dust, and other allergens like higher pile rugs do.
  • Versatile – Washable rugs come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and sizes.

Cons of Washable Rugs:

  • Durability – Washing can cause wear and tear on the fibers in your rug, shortening its life span over more conventional rugs.
  • Resale/Trade value – Washable rugs are often thought of as less expensive or luxurious in comparison to rugs made of wool or silk.
  • Curling or Poofing- Sometimes, after washing and drying, the edges may curl up or the seams along the side may gather and not lay flat.
  • Washer Issues – Not all washable rugs will fit in all washing machines. If you have a smaller capacity washer, or a very large rug, you may not be able to throw it in the washing machine. If it doesn’t fit in your washer or is extremely heavily soiled, calling a reputable carpet cleaning professional will solve your problems.
  • Too Lightweight – Many washable rugs are low pile and lightweight, which means they can bunch, slide, and move, creating a fall hazard. Make sure you have a pad underneath your rug.

Washable rugs, in spite of their recent notoriety, have been around for quite some time. They can be beautiful, economical, and quite a sensible option in home décor. Just be sure to do the research on the one you want to make sure it is a good fit for you and your environment.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Applying a poultice to remove stain

Got Stains in Your Stone? Make a Poultice to Remove Them

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support
Natural stone is a popular material used in many applications such as flooring, countertops, and monuments. However, most natural stones are porous and if not protected, can become stained. Stains can make stone look unsightly and can sometimes be challenging to remove. Fortunately, there is an effective way to remove most stains from hard porous surfaces.

Stains on natural stone and other hard porous surfaces can be effectively removed by using a poultice. A poultice is a paste-like mixture that is applied to the surface of the stain to break down the stain and draw it out of the stone. A poultice is made by mixing a dry/powdered material with a liquid cleaning agent to form a thick paste. Common powdered materials used in making poultice include baking soda, talc, chalk, and diatomaceous earth. The cleaning agent is determined by the type of stain.

Refer to our STAIN MANAGEMENT APP for a list of the types of stains and the chemicals to use to break down the stain, and a how-to video.

The first step in removing a stain from stone using a poultice is to identify the type of stain. This is important because the type of stain will determine the type of poultice to use. For example, oil-based stains require a different poultice than water-based stains. Once you have identified the type of stain, you can proceed with making the poultice.

To make the poultice, mix the powdered material with the liquid until you get a thick paste. The consistency of the paste should be similar to peanut butter. The amount of powder and liquid to use depends on the size of the stain. For small stains, you will need a small amount of poultice, while larger stains will require more poultice.

Apply the poultice to the stain and cover it with plastic wrap or a plastic bag. This will help to keep the poultice moist and prevent it from drying out. Leave the poultice on the stain for 24 to 48 hours. The longer you leave the poultice on the stain, the more effective it will be at drawing out the stain from the stone.

After 24 to 48 hours, remove the plastic wrap or bag and scrape off the poultice with a plastic spatula. Rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a clean cloth. You may need to repeat the process several times to completely remove the stain from the stone.

  • For most organic stains use peroxide as the liquid. But not the peroxide you find at the drug store. You will want to use the same strength of peroxide that you can find at beauty supply stores (sold as developer for hair coloring).
  • For ink you will need to use a solvent such as acetone or mineral spirits.
  • For rust you can use a commercial iron remover such as Iron Out.

Removing stains from stone using a poultice is an effective and easy way to restore the appearance of stone surfaces. The key to success is identifying the type of stain and using the right poultice. With a little patience and persistence, you can remove even many of the toughest stains. Remember though, a properly sealed surface will be protected from staining, so make sure your stone is properly sealed. Call us if you have any questions.

By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Robot vacuum Cleaners

Robot vacuum Cleaners – Yay or Nay?

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

What is a robot vacuum cleaner?

A robot vacuum cleaner is a vacuum cleaner that you program to clean, instead of physically operating a machine cleaner yourself. It can be programmed to clean specific areas at certain times, or it can go from room to room. They are usually round, but some are square or D-shaped. Some will empty their own waste bins, some will not. Some will even mop your non-carpeted floor, some will not.

Let’s take a look at the PROs of robot vacuums:

Hard to reach areas – Robot vacuums can get in those hard-to-reach areas such as under beds, chairs or other furniture like tables or bookcases.

Scheduled cleaning – Since they are programable, they can be set to clean at specific times, days or in specific locations. Set it and forget it.

Location cleaning – Most, not all, but most models come with a location cleaning feature that will allow you to have it clean a certain spot or area. I.e., if someone tracks dirt or sand in or you spill something in the kitchen, you can call the cleaner to that specific location to clean it up instead of hauling out a dustpan and broom.

Time saving – Since you are not physically doing the vacuuming chore yourself, you can be doing other things while it does the cleaning.

Pet hair – if you have pets, a robot vac is a good way to keep pet hair under control in between your regular vacuuming.

Now, let’s take a look at the CONs of robot vacuums:

Cost – Even though they have been decreasing in cost lately, as more brands come onto the market, they are still pricey. A basic model can run over $200 while a top of the line, all the bells and whistles model, can easily run upward of $1,000.

Power – The motor on these vacuums is much smaller than regular vacuums, meaning they don’t have the suction power that regular upright or canister vacuums have. They won’t pick up the amount of dirt a regular vacuum can. Plus, they aren’t very good at cleaning corners. Experts recommend that even if you have a robot vac, you still need to clean with a regular vacuum from time to time.

You still must pick up – You would pick things up off the floor to use a regular vacuum. You wouldn’t vacuum over socks or coins or other objects. You still need to do this for robot vacs. Meaning, you have to remember when it is going to vacuum and where, so you can pick up anything in its path. Failing to do so could result in the vacuum getting stuck, damaged or creating a bigger mess than what you started with.

Small collection cup – these machines are small, so their debris collection cups are small as well. They need to be emptied frequently, unless of course you get a high end one that empties itself.

Noise – It’s not that they are particularly noisy. It’s that they take much longer to clean than doing the job yourself with a regular vacuum. If you are away when it cleans, then no big deal. However, if you work from home or are retired and spend a lot of time at home, you may have to listen to it for quite awhile, while you are trying to work, watch TV, read or just relax.

Robot vacuums are becoming more attainable with more brands on the market than ever before. They come with all sorts of features and attributes that make them more reliable and desirable than years past. Figure out the features you really want. Do you want self-emptying? Do you want one that mops? Do you want location cleaning? Do you want it to clean under furniture? If yes, then make sure you measure the gap under your furniture and also measure the height of the model you are considering, to make sure it will fit.

Just be sure to do the research so you can get the model that is right for you. And remember, even with a robot vacuum, you still need to use your upright or canister vac from time to time.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Quartzite vs Quartz

Quartzite vs Quartz

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Quartzite and Quartz: These two words sound almost the same and there are some similarities between the two products, but they are definitely not the same thing. There are more differences than there are similarities. Let’s examine these two beautiful but different products.

What is quartzite?

Quartzite is a 100% natural stone, created by Mother Nature and mined from the earth by men and machines. It is sandstone that is high in the naturally occurring mineral quartz. It gets subjected to high heat and immense pressure to form a dense hard rock.

What is quartz?

Quartz is a man-made product, sometimes called engineered stone. Depending on the brand and manufacturer, quartz products are composed of 90-95% naturally occurring quartz held together by binding ingredients such as resins and polymers.

How are these 2 materials the same?

  • The main ingredient in both is the mineral quartz.
  • They both score 7 or more on the Mohs scale of hardness.
  • Both are considered excellent countertop materials.
  • Abrasive cleaners should not be used on either material.
  • If damaged, both can be repaired by your stone restoration pro.

How are these 2 materials different?

  • Quartzite is 100% natural.
  • Quartz is not.
  • Quartzite is porous and needs to be sealed.
  • Quartz is considered non-porous and does not need to be sealed.
  • Quartzite has a natural look of depth and feel.
  • Quartz, according to many, has a lack of natural depth and/or feel.
  • Quartzite, while naturally beautiful, comes in a limited color pallet, usually in white, gray or brown hues. Occasionally due to iron oxide, it can have a red or pink hue.
  • Quartz comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors.
  • Quartzite can take the occasional hot pot or pan laid on it.
  • Quartz cannot. Its polymers and resins can melt under the heat of pots, pans, and countertop appliances such as slow cookers or air fryers.
  • Quartzite is UV resistant, meaning it won’t fade in sunlight, making it a great fit for outdoor kitchens.
  • Quartz is not UV resistant and can fade in the sunlight coming through a window.

Both of these materials are beautiful and excellent choices for kitchen countertops, vanity tops, shower walls, bar tops and countless other stone projects. The key is to know and understand the differences between the two products so you can make an informed decision and be happy with the end result for years to come.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Stone Polishing

A Brief History of Stone Polishing

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

When was the first known stone polishing done?

Stone polishing has been done since the beginning of civilization. Egyptian workers used sand and other rough materials to polish the surfaces of statues and monuments made of stone. This is the first time that polishing stone is known to have been done. Ancient Greeks and Romans also used this method. They used a variety of tools and materials to make smooth, shiny surfaces on marble statues and building parts.

When were improvements made to the techniques of stone polishing?

During the Middle Ages, ways to polish stones kept getting better. Buildings made of limestone and sandstone in Europe were polished by skilled workers who used tools they could hold in their hands. They also used grinding wheels powered by water to make stone floors and countertops smooth and even.

When were substantial changes made to the way we polish stone?

During the Industrial Revolution in the 1800s, there were substantial changes in how stone was polished. When the steam-powered grinding wheel was invented, it made polishing large surfaces faster and more effective. This made it possible to polish whole floors and building facades in a short amount of time.

How is stone polishing done today?

Today, polishing stone is a very specialized job that uses a wide range of modern tools and methods. Professional stone polishers use tools like electric and pneumatic grinders, polishing pads with diamond tips, and chemical polishing compounds. In short, polishing stone is an old skill that has changed over time into a highly specialized field that uses modern tools and methods. From the time when ancient Egyptians used rough materials to polish the surfaces of stone monuments to the 19th century, when a grinding wheel powered by steam was invented, technology has been a big part of how stone polishing has changed.

The mechanics of polishing stone have not changed much over hundreds of years. Yes, the tools and abrasives might have changed but the processes remain the same.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Carpet Cleaning Service

Professional Carpet Cleaning vs DIY Carpet Cleaning

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Why Should I Clean My Carpet?

Carpet, like everything else, gets dirty. Clothes, shoes, dishes, cars, all get dirty. So do the carpets and rugs in your home. They need to be cleaned and maintained just like everything else.

Can I Clean My Own Carpet?

Spot cleaning an area that is soiled or stained is a great way to help your carpet look good, but cleaning a whole carpet yourself can be a daunting task. Let’s look at the pros and cons of professional carpet cleaning versus DIY cleaning.

Professional Cleaning:

Pros:

  • Experts – Did you know that not all carpets can be steam cleaned? A professional carpet cleaning technician does know that not all carpet material is the same. Carpet cleaning technicians know how to clean all types of carpet materials.
  • Equipment – Professional carpet cleaning equipment is much more powerful and heats water to a much higher temperature than DIY rental equipment which creates a much cleaner end result.
  • Convenience – Hiring a professional saves a lot of your time. By the time you go to the store, rent the equipment, load it in your vehicle, move the furniture, clean the carpet, clean the machine, and go back to the store to return it, you have invested quite a bit of your time.
  • Drying – Since professional equipment is so much more powerful, it extracts much more water, so your carpet takes much less time to dry.

Cons:

  • Expense: It does cost more money to hire a professional than if you go the DIY route.
  • Timing – You may not be able to get an appointment time that is convenient for you. You may have to rearrange your schedule a bit to fit it in.

DIY Carpet Cleaning:

Pros:

  • Scheduling – Since you are doing it yourself, you can schedule the cleaning for a time and date that is most convenient for you.
  • Expense – It does save money to DIY carpet cleaning. At least initially.
  • Satisfaction – When the carpet is dry, the furniture is back in place and the machine is back at the store, you can enjoy your sense of accomplishment.

Cons:

  • Drying – Since DIY equipment is not as powerful, it leaves more water in the carpet, making for a longer drying time.
  • Cleanliness – As previously mentioned, DIY equipment is not as powerful as professional equipment. It leaves more water and cleaning solution in the carpet which will eventually trap and hold more dirt, causing your carpet to look dirtier quicker.
  • Equipment – Professional carpet technicians maintain their equipment. DIY equipment may not be as well maintained. Some people, unfamiliar with the machines, may accidently damage the equipment. Being afraid of extra charges, they may not say anything, leaving the malfunctioning machine on the shelf for the next person to rent.

Routine carpet cleaning is a must to extend the life and beauty of your carpets and rugs. However, incorrect cleaning can cost you time, and more importantly, money. Plus, incorrect cleaning can shorten the life of your carpets and rugs. Spot cleaning your spills and stains is important, but professional carpet cleaning is the best way to protect your investment.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Natural Stone Etching

Staining vs Etching on Natural Stone

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Staining vs Etching on Natural Stone

Sometimes, things may look the same, but in reality, they are 2 completely different things. This can sometimes be the case with staining and etching on natural stone. These 2 things are the most common issues that can damage your natural stone projects.

What is staining?

Natural stone (with the possible exception of soapstone) is considered a porous material. This means that it can absorb moisture and liquid. Any absorbed moisture can cause discoloration in the stone. This discoloration is a stain. Stains normally do not affect the surface of the stone and if you rub your fingers over the affected area, there should be no change to the feel of the surface.

What can cause a stain on stone?

There are a lot of different things that can stain your natural stone. Tea, wine, cooking oil, fruit juice, and cleaning agents are just a few of the things that can cause stains on natural stone surfaces.

What can be done to prevent stains?

  • Make sure your stone is sealed with a quality impregnating sealer. A sealer will not prevent staining by itself. What it will do is slow down absorption to give you more time to deal with the spill.
  • Always make sure to use a cutting board on kitchen countertops.
  • Wipe up any liquid or debris as soon as possible.

What if my stone does stain?

If you do happen to get a stain, there are things you can do.

  • Click on the resources tab on our website and then click on the Stain Management App. Enter the kind of stain it is in the stain database and follow the instructions on how to remove the stain.
  • If you aren’t comfortable with a DIY approach, please feel free to call us for assistance. Or send us a message on our contact page.

What is etching?

Many times, etching is confused with staining, when in fact they are two different issues. Etching happens when an acidic substance comes in contact with the stone and “eats” away at the surface of the stone. The etch mark will look dull and possibly whitish. Etches change the smooth surface of the stone. If you run your fingers over the affected area, it can feel rough. Etches are also often mistaken for water spots.

What can cause etching on natural stone?

There are many different things that can etch your natural stone. Vinegar, coffee, and soda are just a few of the things that can leave etch marks on your stone.

What can be done to prevent etching?

  • Always make sure you use a cutting board on kitchen countertops.
  • Don’t spread the spill. Blot it up with a sponge or paper towel. Then rinse and dry the area.
  • Don’t use acidic cleaners on your stone projects.

What if my stone does etch?

If you do happen to get etches in your stone, it is best to contact a professional for help. There are removers on the market and a professional fabricator or restoration contractor will know how best to deal with the product and the stone you have.

While staining and etching are two different things, they are not mutually exclusive. It is entirely possible for a stain to appear in an etched area of stone and vice versa. That being said, one of the best reasons to use natural stone for your projects is that it is a renewable and restorable material. If it is damaged, you don’t have to replace it. It can be fixed and restored.

(A tip for someone who has not purchased their stone yet: Think about getting a honed finish instead of a polished finish. A honed finish is a matte finish and not shiny. One of the reasons etch marks are so noticeable is because they create a dull area on a polished finish. If your surface is not shiny, the etch will show much less.)

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Carpet Tile

Carpet Tiles: Yes or No?

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

What are carpet tiles?

Carpet tiles are exactly what they sound like. Pieces of carpet, cut into tile shapes. Some carpet tiles comes with a self-stick backing while others need mastic or other adhesive to be installed.

Pros of Carpet Tiles:

  • Cost – While the square foot price is almost the same as wall-to-wall carpet, the savings come from installation. It is easier and quicker for a carpet installer to install carpet tile thus reducing the cost.
  • Ease of installation – Carpet tiles are easier to install, making the installation quicker, so there is less disruption to your living space.
  • DIY friendly – Since carpet tiles are considered rather easy to install, they can be a great DIY project.
  • Versatility – Colors and styles and shapes can be mixed and matched for unique designs.
  • Reusable – Carpet tiles, if installed and uninstalled properly, can be used for another project.
  • Maintenance – They should be vacuumed regularly like other types of carpets or rugs. When it comes to regular professional cleaning, just let your service technician know beforehand that you have carpet tile. If you have one area that is heavily stained, you can just replace those areas with new tiles.

Cons of Carpet Tiles:

  • Seams – Carpet tiles are installed as individual pieces, so there are multiple seams that will show.
  • Fraying – Since there are more seams, there are more edges to fray or produce loose fiber bits.
  • Acclimation – Carpet tiles (like hardwood) need to acclimate to their environment. Most manufacturers advise 24-48 hours. This is the most commonly skipped step in carpet tile installation. Failure to acclimate to their environment may affect the integrity of the installed project.
  • Color uniformity – As with anything sold in lots, shades can vary between lots of the same color, as well as varying shades within the same lot. When shopping for carpet tile, try to choose tiles all from the same lot for the best color uniformity.
  • Perception – Even though carpet tiles come with a cushion backing that enhances their anti-fatigue benefits and increases comfort levels, they are still thought by some to be less comfortable and less luxurious feeling underfoot.

Carpet tiles are a great alternative to wall-to-wall applications. However, just because they are installed differently does not mean that you can forgo regular carpet maintenance. Carpet tiles are still carpet material and need to be treated as any other carpet project in your home. Regular vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning will extend the life of your carpet tiles and keep them looking good for years to come.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Stone Countertops

The Other Stone Countertops

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

The Other Stone Countertops

When most people think about natural stone countertops, granite and marble usually come to mind first. They are the two most written about, most popular and most widespread natural stone materials that people are familiar with. However, there are several other natural stone materials that should also be considered for countertop projects. Here, we will explore some of the other natural stone choices.

Limestone

Advantages:

  • Cost – Limestone usually does not cost as much as some other natural stones.
  • A variety of color hues – While largely neutral, limestone does come in a color range including tan, rose, gray, and variety of other neutral tones
  • Durability – Limestone is a very durable natural stone that will last beautifully for years.

Disadvantages

  • Softness – Limestone is a softer stone, so it is more prone to scratching.
  • Porosity – Since it is a soft stone, it is more porous than some other natural stones. To buy yourself some time against stains, make sure to keep your limestone sealed properly.
  • Acid sensitive – Common acidic foods like lemons, limes, tomatoes, and red wine or vinegar can etch limestone. Just be careful when preparing or using these items on your limestone countertop, even with a cutting board.

Quartzite

Advantages:

  • Very hard and durable – Actually scores just a bit better on the Mohs scale than granite.
  • Easy to clean – After sealing, it just needs soap and water cleanup.
  • UV resistant – Quartzite won’t fade or darken in direct sunlight.

 Disadvantages:

  • Usually more costly – The stone itself is rarer, so it does usually cost more than some other natural stones.
  • Prone to etching and staining – Even with sealing, spills will need to be tended to as quickly as possible to prevent staining and /or etching.
  • Not DIY friendly – DIY folks should not install or try to repair this stone.

 Soapstone

Advantages:

  • DIY friendly – Soapstone is a softer stone, so it does scratch. However, most scratches can be dealt with by the homeowner. Also, since soapstone doesn’t need sealing, only waxing or oiling, this can also be a DIY project as well.
  • Doesn’t stain – Soapstone is considered a non-porous material, which means it doesn’t stain.
  • Durable – Even though it is a softer stone, soapstone is very durable and can last for years if not decades when properly maintained.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited color range – Soapstone usually comes in grey or black, although it can contain hues of green or blue with some white veining.
  • Maintenance – Soapstone will develop a patina over time and also wear unevenly. To help alleviate the uneven wear appearance, soapstone should be oiled or waxed.
  • Scratches easily – It is a softer stone, so it is prone to scratching. However, as mentioned above, most scratches can be a DIY fix.

Sandstone

Advantages: 

  • The look – Sandstone has an earthy look and depth that offers a unique and stunning visual appearance.
  • Durability – The main component in sandstone is either quartz or feldspar, making it a very durable stone material.
  • Maintenance – Once properly sealed, sandstone doesn’t require any special cleaners. Water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth are all that is necessary.

Disadvantages:

  • Porosity – Sandstone is very porous and soaks up liquid quickly, which can lead to unsightly stains.
  • Scratches – Using a cutting board on sandstone is highly recommended since it does scratch easily.
  • Sealing – Sandstone, because it is so porous, needs to be sealed and regularly resealed with a high-quality impregnating sealer. An impregnating sealer does not prevent staining. It does give you more time to deal with the spill before it becomes a stain.

Soapstone is the most DIY friendly natural stone choice. Most scratches and other imperfections, such as uneven wear can be dealt with by the homeowner. However, other natural stone materials can be renewed or repaired by qualified, professional restoration technicians.

Sometimes we get preconditioned. Granite, marble, granite, and marble is all we hear. There are many other wonderful natural stone choices out there for countertops. If granite and marble were our only natural options, then mother nature wouldn’t have given us all those other beautiful choices.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.