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INSTALLATIONS
COLORS
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Soapstone is a natural stone made from a composite of mineral
deposits. Quarried from the earth like granite and marble,
this steatite stone is primarily composed of talc. The talc
component in soapstone makes it soft to the touch and gives
that smooth feeling of rubbing a piece of dry soap. Soapstone
has a smooth, dense surface that stores massive amounts of
heat, radiating the heat slowly and steadily.
Soapstone's unique dark color attribute is complemented be
light, flowing veins When mined, soapstone looks blue or gray,
but with time and oil application it oxides and changes color
from light green-gray to a natural darkened color. Because
soapstone is a natural stone, no two pieces may look the same.
Soapstone is subject to color and veining variations.
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Cleaning & Care
Soapstone is very easily maintained. With a simple mineral
oil application, its color and appearance are enchanced.
Scratches
If a mark or scratch gets on the stone, it can be
removed by either rubbing it out with mineral oil on a paper
towel and medium prssure, or by using a small piece of 300
grit sandpaper followed by a mineral oil application. For
deeper scratches, use the same procedure with 100 grit sandpaper.
Spills
Liquid spills may leave a darkened area or surface stain.
These marks can be scrubbed or sanded off the stone as they
do not peneterate below the surface of the soapstone. Soapstone
is an inert material and impervious to chemicals, acids, and
heat, making it safe for standard household cleaning products.
Mineral Oil
Soapstone oxidizes (turns dark) when exposed to water, grease,
and oils. For this reason, treating soapstone with mineral
oil will keep the oxidation uniform across the entire surface,
bringing out the dark richness of the stone's natural color
and making it more dramatic. Also, mineral oil works as a
protective surface sealer. Initial application of mineral
oil should be done on installation of your countertop or sink,
with periodic applications to keep your soapstone looking
new. Suggested application is once a week for the first six
months to keep the color uniform, followed by once a month
for the next six months. You can not hurt your soapstone surface
by overapplication of mineral oil.
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