Upgrading to soapstone countertops is a strategic way to increase your home value, especially when refreshing high-impact spaces like kitchens and bathrooms before a sale. Countertops are a major selling point and shouldn’t be overlooked when researching how to increase home value. In any market, catching buyers’ attention can be a challenge, but the many benefits of soapstone countertops offer a smart, standout solution.
What Are Soapstone Countertops?
Soapstone countertops are made from a durable metamorphic rock, carefully fabricated for use in residential and commercial spaces. Soapstone is a good choice for countertops due to its natural resistance to heat, stains, scratches, and bacteria. The appealing range of soapstone colors and patterns spans from soft gray to deep charcoal, accented with white veining that can be either subtle or bold. Because soapstone countertops are highly sought after in today’s housing market, choosing this material for updates and renovations can help increase the value of your home.
Soapstone vs. Granite
Granite is known for its wide range of colors and natural, unique patterns. But those same pattern variations can make it challenging to achieve a uniform look across larger countertop surfaces. It’s also a higher-maintenance stone that requires regular sealing to prevent damage. Granite is prone to etching from acidic liquids like citrus or vinegar and can stain from grease, oils, or dark-colored liquids. Because granite is a porous material, it can absorb moisture over time, which may lead to mildew or bacterial growth if not properly sealed.
Soapstone vs. Quartz
Quartz countertops are engineered rather than quarried, and through the years they’ve gained popularity as a granite alternative thanks to their polished, uniform appearance. While quartz is relatively resistant to cracking, exposure to extreme temperatures—like a hot pan or even a bag of ice—can compromise its surface. It’s more durable than some natural stones, but if it does get chipped or cracked, repairs typically require a professional. Quartz is stain-resistant but not stain-proof; the resins used in its composition can discolor with bleach, acidic substances, or prolonged UV exposure.
Why Soapstone Countertops Add Value to Your Home
Replacing the countertops in your kitchen or bathroom is one of the best ways to enhance the look and feel of your home. But using soapstone adds even more long-term appeal. Soapstone countertops increase home value thanks to the range of benefits this natural material offers, from its impressive durability to its timeless appearance.
Durability for Everyday Use
Soapstone is a durable, dense material ideal for high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom, making it a smart countertop choice to increase home value. It’s highly resistant to chipping, cracking, and scratching—especially important in busy home kitchens that see daily wear and tear. Its natural heat resistance allows hot pots, pans, and dishes to be placed on the counter without scorching or causing damage. As a nonporous stone, soapstone doesn’t absorb liquids, stain, or get damaged by standing water.
Aesthetic Appeal
No matter which variety you choose, installing soapstone countertops can help you achieve either a classic or contemporary aesthetic. This gives future homeowners the flexibility to personalize the space without the need for costly renovations. Some of the most popular classic soapstone varieties include:
- Anastacia – Naturally dark with subtle blue undertones, this variety becomes even deeper in color with bold, dramatic veining after treatment.
- Santa Rita – Known for its marble-like veining, this stone has a gray base that transforms into a rich blue-green after treatment.
- Barroca™ – A traditional favorite, Barroca starts as a light gray and deepens to black with treatment, accented by soft, sparse veining.
- Rainforest Green– Offers a soft green hue that comes to life with wax or oil, standing out beautifully in both modern and rustic spaces.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly
Today’s home buyers are increasingly drawn to homes built with natural, sustainably sourced materials, and soapstone fits the bill. As a quarried, natural stone that doesn’t rely on chemical resins or synthetic additives, soapstone is considered an eco-friendly choice. The benefits of soapstone countertops—namely their longevity and durability—mean they rarely need replacing, which helps reduce waste and lowers the material’s overall carbon footprint. If you want to refresh the look of your soapstone countertops over time, simply sand or reapply mineral oil for a clean, updated finish—no need for replacement or heavy renovation.
High-End Look Without the High-End Hassle
Many countertop materials offer a luxurious appearance but require frequent maintenance, like sealing or buffing. Soapstone, on the other hand, is refreshingly low-maintenance. Caring for soapstone countertops is often as simple as wiping up spills when they happen and cleaning regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface. If a soapstone kitchen counter gets scratched, you can easily sand and smooth out the mark.
Pro Tip: Applying mineral oil or wax from time to time helps enhance the stone’s natural veining and supports the development of its signature patina.
If you’re planning to update your kitchen or bathroom countertops to increase home value before selling, we’re here to help. Contact M Teixeira Soapstone today to get started.