Quartz vs. Soapstone Countertops by Cambria

Quartz and soapstone countertops offer distinctive designs that last. Quartz offers a sleek, modern look with greater durability, consistent design, and minimal upkeep. Soapstone brings a natural feel with heat resistance and a soft matte finish that deepens over time. The best fit for you depends on your desired style, budget, and upkeep.

Quartz vs. Soapstone

Curious about the similarities and differences of quartz and soapstone countertops? Explore what sets them apart.

What Is Quartz?

Quartz countertops are made of abundant natural quartz crystals that are then combined with binders and pigments to create its final, beautiful product. This process enables quartz countertops to be extremely durable, nonabsorbent, and resistant to stains, scratches, and chips. Available in a wide range of designs, colors, and consistent patterns, quartz also presents a uniform look from slab to slab.

What Is Soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural stone quarried in large blocks, then transported to fabrication facilities and cut into slabs of desired thickness. Despite its softness, it’s dense and nonporous, with excellent resistance to heat, acids, and chemicals. Its color typically ranges from gray to green or bluish tones, often with subtle veining. Over time, the surface darkens and develops a rich, natural patina.

Performance: Quartz vs. Soapstone

Quartz and soapstone stand out as popular surface materials. Discover the differences between how the two perform.

Maintenance

Quartz countertops are maintenance free, stain resistant, naturally nonabsorbent, and certified, and they never need sealing. To clean, just wipe with warm water, a soft cotton cloth, and mild soap, if desired. Soapstone is also nonabsorbent and easy to clean, but requires regular oiling to prevent staining, enhance its patina, and maintain a consistent appearance over time.

Durability

Quartz is highly durable, resisting scratches, stains, and chips for lasting performance. Soapstone is softer and more prone to scratches and dents, though many marks can be buffed out with effort. While soapstone handles heat better in some cases, sudden temperature changes may damage either material, so trivets are always recommended. For greater peace of mind, Cambria quartz surfaces come with a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty. 

Appearance

Quartz countertops offer a wide range of consistent colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice across styles and color schemes—while creating a cohesive look in any space. Soapstone features soft, matte finishes in darker tones like gray, green, and blue, often with natural veining. Its surface darkens over time, developing a dark patina. Cambria offers quartz designs that capture the look of other natural stones, including soapstone.

Environmental Impact

Quartz is harvested by removing small aggregate quartz stones, which leaves a smaller footprint and generates less waste. This harvesting practice allows for more optimal native vegetation restoration. Soapstone is a natural material with a generally low environmental impact, though quarrying and transporting it still carry costs. Responsible sourcing can help minimize its footprint.

Available at Cabinet-S-Top, 1977 Medina Road, Medina, OH  44256 - 330.239.3630