When your clients are interested in the beauty of natural stone slab for their Toronto kitchen countertop but wary of marble’s high maintenance and granite’s high cost, it’s time to discuss trendy alternatives.

 

 

Popular in the past, soapstone slabs are gaining popularity again for their wide variety of colours and the sleek, warm look it brings to kitchens. With soapstone, it’s important to have clients touch a slab so they understand the softness it offers when compared to other stones.

 

That softness of the stone is an advantage. If your client’s soapstone counter is scratched or scraped, the mark can be etched away. No more trying to position a trivet or appliance into an awkward space to cover up an unsightly mark on the countertop.

 

Soapstone also avoids one of marble’s biggest disadvantages. With marble, acidic liquids, like wine, soda, or vinegar, can actually leave permanent pits and etches on the surface—even when wiped immediately. Resilient soapstone doesn’t have that flaw. Just wipe the spill up and there’s usually no permanent damage.

 

There are a couple of drawbacks to soapstone countertops. They aren’t heat-resistant, so your client won’t be able to microwave a bowl or plate and then place it directly on the countertop.

 

The next disadvantage is actually considered to be an advantage to some. Soapstone can dent easily if something heavy is dropped on the countertop. If your clients like the look of distressed soapstone—and many people do—they may adore the extra personality over time. In fact, you may want to discourage them from deliberately denting the countertop so it can have a longer lifespan.

 

Soapstone also needs regular maintenance to keep it looking like new. A little oil and regular buffing will be needed.

 

 

Quartz is a popular alternative to granite since it’s also durable and hard. Your clients may be interested in glossy quartz since it often costs less per square foot. It’s available in a wide range of colours, so your clients can match it to their current décor or try something that contrasts for a more modern look. Black and white, either together or separately, are both hot colours for the kitchen right now.

 

Quartz offers the amazing benefit of retaining its fabulous glossy sheen without needing to be resealed every year or two. That makes it one of the more low maintenance natural stone slabs for kitchen counters. It can be enjoyed for years without worrying about missing the anniversary of the last sealing.

 

Quartz is also easy to clean. All your client has to do is wipe it with mild soap and water.

 

Quartz does have a couple of drawbacks that your clients need to consider. It’s heavy, so the shelves and cabinets beneath it have to be in good repair in order to hold the weight. It’s also not heat-resistant, so your clients have to remember to avoid putting hot objects directly on the countertop.

 

Soapstone and quartz are two types of natural stone slab that your clients can use in their Toronto kitchen renovation. Sit down with them and show them their choices so they can make an informed choice.