Whether you want a rustic vibe, traditional look or country ambiance, soapstone countertops provide a timeless touch. Homeowners have chosen soapstone for countertops and sinks for hundreds of years. Warm to the touch, the distinctive charcoal-colored material darkens over time, revealing a dark patina. The soapy material feels soft and smooth, and countertops can last 100 years. Composed of talc and quartz, soapstone resists scorching and stains. Impervious to citrus acids and tomato juice, the material makes the ideal surface for chemistry labs as well. Despite its many advantages, soapstone may not be appropriate for every kitchen or bathroom.

Maintenance

To maintain its color and appearance, soapstone requires monthly applications of mineral oil. Without regular applications, the material will appear patchy and lusterless. The messy maintenance proves to be too much for homeowners who loathe high-maintenance countertops. Every month, you must remove everything from the counter and don old clothes. If you cannot make the time commitment, bypass this material.

Scratches

Though soapstone resists heat and stains, the material does not resist scratches. If you don't religiously apply mineral oil, your countertop will appear worn from all the dents and nicks. The top and edges eventually show wear and tear, though sanding can remove most scratches. Even careful homeowners inevitably create scuffs and scrape marks. Some homeowners don't mind the flawed patina, while others regret choosing such an imperfect surface. If you cannot forgive some superficial blemishes, choose a harder material than soapstone.

Limited Colors

If you want an endless array of color options from which to choose, you won't find much of a selection with soapstone. Soapstone comes in one color choice -- gray. With use and time, soapstone eventually turns a mottled, black color. Most slabs offer subtle veins of white, but the material is otherwise uniform.

Environmental and Quality Issues

Brazil supplies most of the soapstone available for sale in the U.S. Shipping stone requires considerable energy and creates air pollution in the process. To mitigate environmental concerns, purchase soapstone from one of the few remaining quarries on the East Coast. Make sure that you're actually purchasing soapstone, which should feel soapy to the touch. Disreputable retailers try to pass off low-grade marble as soapstone.