What's new . . . Soapstone. See Photo

SOAP STONE: Now in stock, soap stone is a natural stone from Brazil, made principally of steatite, and has some extremely durable properties. First, it is chemically resistant to almost anything, making it ideal for bar tops or any surface where acids are present. Second, it is thermally resistant , easily handling any temperatures you can create in your kitchen. It comes in a range of gray tones, which are the natural variation of one material. Soapstone should not be confused with talc stone, a stone of lesser hardness, which comes in a variety of colors, which is sometimes sold as soapstone, but does not have the same incredible performance statistics.

Our soapstone is the same as was used in and around Vermont for centuries for countertops, sinks, fireplace hearths, etc. There are no longer adequate deposits in Vermont, but we have discovered this source of identical material from Brazil which has the same lasting properties. To take care of soapstone, apply 1-2 light coats of mineral oil, when first installed. This darkens the stone to a deep green gray, which slightly lightens over time, and can be darkened again by re-applying the oil. Soapstone requires only simple care.

Westchester now stocks tiles & slab, as well as a number of special “artifacts”, such as sinks, garden fountains, etc. Soapstone also lends itself to custom carvings. If you can draw it, we can quote it and supply it!

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