The Anomaly of Soapstone

Soapstone is finally recognized for it's many uses and superior attributes when compared to other natural stone and man made materials.

September, 2003 -- Soapstone - This long overlooked Wonder Stone" is finally getting its just rewards. Leading Designers, Architects, and Builders are discovering the marvelous attributes soapstone inherently possesses.

To begin, soapstone is quarried or removed from the ground like all other natural stones. It contains magnesite and talc. Because of its high talc content, the stone has a natural dry and soft feel to it like dry soap. Thus the name, soapstone. Theres a misconception by many that soapstone is man made. It is not.

Since soapstone has a high content of talc, which gives it a soft and very smooth feeling to the touch, many think that soapstone is absorbent like a sponge. Quite the opposite. Nothing known can penetrate below the surface. Fabricated into stone sinks and tops, soapstone has made its way to and still possesses strong presence for use in leading science laboratories around the world. Chemicals cant hurt it.

Soapstone cant be beat when it comes to heat. Due to its capability to expand when heated without cracking, its a favorite natural stone choice for cooking surfaces, fireplaces, woodstoves and ovens. Its used in the tile form and applied to radiant heat system floors to further increase efficiency and for its warm and soft to the foot feel. Regular woodstoves as we know them work at around the 25% efficiency level. When constructed with 100% soapstone - named a Masonry Heater, efficiency levels increase to above 90%. Cookware made with soapstone works the same way. Long after a soapstone cooking pot is removed from the heat source, it continues to cook the contents and keep them hot.

Soapstones popularity and practicality for countertops is finally taking hold. The more this unique stone is studied and compared to other options, the more its being requested for as counter, bar and vanity tops to tiles, stoneware and décor highlights. It brings a natural low maintenance alternative to the market of plastics, granite, and marble. When installed, it can be left alone to acquire its own natural surface darkening with delightful and unique patina accents, or mineral oil can be applied to give the stone surface an even natural darkness.

We have yet to find a natural substance known to hold so many superior attributes when compared to all natural stones, mixed stones, man made stones, and plastics. Soapstone - The Wonder Stone.

For more information or personal interview, please contact: Paul Thompson - (Professor Soapstone) Vermont Marble, Granite, Slate and Soapstone Co. 802.747.7744

Sincerely,
Sara Laubschauer
Public Relations Coordinator
Vermont Marble, Granite, Slate & Soapstone Co.
2046 Route 4, P.O. Box 577
Killington, Vermont 07571
PH - 802.747.7744
FX - 802.217.1044
www.vermontmarbleandgranite.com
www.soapstone-co.com
www.vermontwoodstove.com
sara@vermontmarbleandgranite.com