Do Soapstone Countertops Contain Asbestos?

There may be asbestos in Soapstone Countertops of some type. Before knowing about soapstone asbestos, it’s good to know what asbestos is. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asbestos is a dangerous, naturally occurring mineral found in soil, rock, water, and air.

It can cause severe diseases of the lungs like mesothelioma or lung cancer when inhaled or ingested. Soapstone asbestos has been banned in commercial uses as of 1990. Most forms of asbestos are now held in safe facilities until they can be appropriately disposed of. To know the cost of soapstone countertops, click here.

Introduction to Asbestos

Asbestos refers to a group of fibrous minerals that can resist burning or exploding. It’s also a fiber found in abundance in nature. This quality makes this mineral useful but also poses hazards. Therefore, asbestos is highly toxic to the environment and workers.

An archeological study revealed asbestos usage by humans dates back to the Stone Age. Despite its popularity in buildings, manufacturers began employing asbestos during the 19th century, when these industries began employing asbestos as a means to make products strong and more durable.

Asbestos was long used for construction worldwide, especially as insulation for houses and homes. It can now be found inside nearly every building constructed before the late 1970s.

The use of asbestos is prohibited in many countries, despite causing millions of deaths every year worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of humans die due to the harmful effects of the substance, even though it is no longer allowed to be used in homes and workplaces.

Does soapstone contain asbestos?

The danger of asbestos in soapstone is that you may not know that it is there until you start to see it. It’s important to know what you’re working with and to be aware of how you are treating your natural stone.

This type of stone is considered a natural stone, and it’s important to know that natural stone is not always safe. Most manufacturers will warn you of the possibility of asbestos when you choose to buy these types of countertops.

You can avoid this problem by asking the manufacturer of your countertop to test the surface before you install it in your bathroom. If the manufacturer finds asbestos, you can have it removed.

If you are planning on using your countertop more than once, you may be able to remove the asbestos. You may have to spend a lot of money to have your marble or soapstone countertop removed, however, so be sure to check with your contractor before you do.

Why should you prefer Quartz Countertops over soapstone?

A quartz countertop means that your food will not adhere to the countertop, and it provides the maximum possible benefits in your daily kitchen work. Furthermore, quartz countertops can withstand high levels of heat, scratches, and fingerprints longer than many other types of surfaces. That is why, even after years in your home, your quartz countertops will still look like new.

Reasons to Consider Quartz Countertops

1. Quartz is less brittle and easier to maintain. Quartz countertops are usually harder than granite and marble countertops. This durability allows quartz to last longer.

2. Quartz surfaces can easily be resealed and are resistant to stains.

3. Quartz countertops are easily cleaned using water and can be cleaned using a simple cleaning product.

4. Quartz is a natural material that can be carved. That’s why engineered quartz flooring looks so realistic.

5. Quartz countertops are not porous. That means any moisture will not seep through the surface.

6. Quartz countertops can be a cost-effective alternative to granite.

7. Most people are at least a little concerned about spreading germs. If you like your countertops to avoid this concern, then quartz is the best option for you. A quartz countertop doesn’t transmit germs as granite does.

8. Another thing about quartz versus granite is its ease of installation. A granite countertop can leave a lot of unsightly holes.

9. Quartz is a natural stone, and so all stone products have a limited warranty to ensure they won’t crack or chip. A manufacturer’s warranty provides additional peace of mind and guarantees the product. Some warranties, however, are longer than others.

For quartz countertops, warranties typically range from 10 to 25 years. Some even guarantee the material for a lifetime. In addition to the warranty from the manufacturer, you have other additional warranty options. In some cases, you may be covered under your homeowner or renter’s insurance. Quartz countertops also come with a variety of other warranties to match any specific needs or design specifications.

10. Another advantage of quartz is its lower maintenance. Granite and marble require weekly to monthly washing, which requires scrubbing, scraping, vacuuming, and rinsing with harsh chemicals. Quartz isn’t subject to the same types of damage. You don’t have to worry about scrubbing and harsh chemicals destroying the surface, even when you’re using them frequently.

11. Unlike some natural stones, quartz can be easily swept, mopped, or wiped clean. If you or your family suffers from a case of poison ivy, don’t use bleach or paint remover, as those chemicals combined with some other ingredients can be a real eye-opener.

This chemical reaction can lead to permanent discoloration and damage. Quartz countertops are more likely to suffer damage, though. Natural stones often get scratched while cleaning and other tasks. They can also chip if they get kicked, caught in the garbage disposal, or banged while being swept. As long as they are maintained, quartz countertops will hold up, and you won’t have to worry about getting another task on your home maintenance list.

12. Quartz countertops are one of the most versatile surfaces out there. They work for nearly every kitchen decor, regardless of its style. For instance, you can pair them with modern, contemporary, traditional, and mid-century styles and achieve a style that works for you.

That versatility means that quartz countertops won’t get the most out of a kitchen if it doesn’t match everything in the space. However, with a little creativity, you can achieve a unified space that works on many levels.

When designing and building a kitchen, think about the whole space, from the floors to the appliances. What happens if you place a stainless steel pot and pan rack on the island? Are they likely to be in the way when you walk by with a dirty pot in your hand? When it comes to kitchen design, it’s critical to know what you want to achieve. Then you can start thinking about the surfaces.

Conclusion

Some soapstone countertops may contain asbestos, so it is crucial that you make your research. Most of us think of our countertops as the thing that holds food and dishes and can be used for food preparation. But, the countertops in your kitchen are also an integral element. They are the first thing you will interact with many times a day.

They are at the heart of your kitchen, right next to your stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and sink. And, it only makes sense that a well-decorated surface will help you to enjoy the many tasks and activities that take place in your kitchen. No matter your culinary preferences, there’s no doubt that quartz countertops offer a safe and creative solution.