Is It Cheaper To Install Soapstone Or Quartz Countertops?
Picking out new countertops for your kitchen or bathroom throws you into a world of choices, and if you're tight on budget, the decision gets even trickier. Of the many types of countertops, you might be wondering, between soapstone and quartz, which one gives you more bang for your buck? Here's a little surprise: the cost difference between quartz and soapstone countertops isn't as vast as you might think. Quartz typically falls between $65 and $155 per square foot, while soapstone ranges from $60 to $185 per square foot. This puts both materials in a similar pricing bracket, nudging you to consider other important factors like durability, beauty, and how much it'll cost to get them installed.
Before diving a bit deeper into these factors that affect pricing, it helps to know what sets soapstone and quartz apart. Soapstone is this naturally occurring stone that's got a lot of talc in it, which makes it feel softer to the touch. It's got a classic, enduring appeal that's been winning hearts for ages. Quartz, meanwhile, is the high-tech cousin of the countertop family. It's made by taking one of the hardest materials on earth and crushing it into powder, then mixing it with resin under high pressure and heat. This process not only makes quartz incredibly sturdy but also highly customizable. You can get quartz in almost any color or pattern, making it a champion of personal style and design flexibility.
Factors that affect pricing
Choosing between soapstone and quartz? Both have their charms, but the price can swing based on a few key things. Each has a price point that reflects its unique qualities and market demand. First, think about size and thickness. More countertop means more material, and naturally, that means a higher cost. It's like buying fabric — the more you need, the more you pay. Design specifics play a role, too. Want those edges to have a fancy curve or a sleek bevel? Custom work requires extra skill and time, which means extra dollars.
Now, onto installation — this isn't a DIY Saturday project. The installation process can be straightforward or complex, depending on your kitchen's layout and the countertop design. Costs can range anywhere from $550 to $750, whether installing quartz countertops or soapstone. Complex cuts, fitting sinks, and ensuring seamless joins can all bump up the installation cost. Also, the overall complexity of your project can nudge the price up or down. A straightforward layout is one thing, but if your kitchen has unique features or you're gunning for a particularly intricate design, be prepared for those costs to reflect the additional work involved. As for colors, quartz really brings a lot to the table with its wide choice of colors and patterns. You've got everything from bright whites to deep blacks. Soapstone, on the other hand, has its own appeal with its natural, earthy tones ranging from greys to blacks.
Which one should I choose?
The choice between soapstone and quartz is a big one, especially when durability is concerned. Each brings its own vibe and benefits to your kitchen or bathroom. Soapstone not only looks good but also takes heat like a champ. Imagine pulling your roast straight from the oven and setting it on the counter without a second thought — that's soapstone for you. Its ability to withstand heat without damage is a plus for those who love to cook. Scratches and nicks might appear. But with a bit of sanding and oiling, soapstone ages gracefully. Quartz counters, meanwhile, are the warriors of the kitchen when it comes to battling everyday life. They're tough against scratches and stains thanks to their non-porous surface. Spill something? Cleaning quartz just takes a quick wipe, and it's like it never happened. This ease of maintenance makes quartz a favorite for those who love a pristine kitchen without the extra upkeep. The caveat? Quartz isn't keen on high heat. So, while it can handle just about anything you throw at it, you'll want to keep those hot pans on a trivet.
In short, if you're drawn to a countertop that has a natural elegance and you don't mind a bit of upkeep to see it age gracefully, soapstone could be a great fit. But if you're aiming for a specific color scheme or want a wide range of colors to choose from — with minimal maintenance, quartz is likely your best bet.