Are Quartz Worktops Better Than Soapstone? DIY Kitchens Worktop Insights

This summer, many homeowners are looking for new worktops. You may be looking at lots of options. When you indulge in the stone market, you will realise instantly that quartz is a popular choice right now. It is engineered to be tough and comes in tons of colours and patterns. People love how easy it is to keep clean.

Besides that, it is a modern favourite for many kitchens. Then, there is soapstone. This is a beautiful, natural stone. It has a soft feel and comes in lovely dark grey or black shades. Plus, it develops a unique look over time, getting darker and richer. It feels warm and classic. It’s a material with genuine character.

But deciding between quartz and soapstone is tricky. After all, both have outstanding qualities. To help you pick the best one for your home, we have put together a detailed comparison. Let’s not exaggerate anything further and get into the features and find out which worktop wins for you.

Here we go!

Which One is Better: Quartz or Soapstone?

Is quartz better than soapstone? Let’s answer it directly with a yes.

“Quartz often edges out Soapstone for many kitchens. It is engineered for superior stain resistance and needs zero sealing, making it super low maintenance. Quartz is also more durable against scratches and chips. Soapstone offers natural beauty and heat resistance but requires oiling and can scratch/etch. For easy care and toughness, Quartz is usually the better pick.”

In the second section, we will deeply understand what are the reasons that make quartz a better choice than soapstone. We will answer this question with honest reviews and analysis.

Quartz vs Soapstone: Top 15 Features Compared

A designer visited our showroom recently. She loved both Quartz and Soapstone. But deciding on one material was tough for her. Both are beautiful, but very different. To help her, and you, we compared them on 15 key features. Let’s get into this guide and see which material wins for your DIY kitchen project.

1. Aesthetics

How will these worktops look in your kitchen? Appearance is a huge part of your decision. Both Quartz and Soapstone worktops are beautiful, but they offer very different kinds of beauty. Let’s explore the design options you get with each.

• Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone that offers amazing design freedom. Manufacturers can create almost any colour or pattern you can imagine. You will find bold solid colours, subtle shades, and incredible designs that perfectly copy the look of natural stone.

It perfectly mimics the beauty of stones like marble and granite with realistic veining. This means you can find a quartz worktop to match any kitchen style easily. The control over pigments and materials gives you a vast and predictable range of looks.

• Soapstone

This natural stone has a unique, understated beauty. It comes in shades of soft grey to deep charcoal or black. Soapstone is known for its distinctive, light-coloured veining that runs through the darker background.

Thus, it’s obvious that each slab is completely unique, a piece of natural art with its own pattern. Over time, soapstone develops a rich patina, darkening slightly and becoming smoother where it is touched. It has a warm, classic feel.

Who Wins?

Quartz is the winner for sheer variety and control over pattern. It offers more engineered design options. Its colours, patterns, and veining variety wins your heart. If you are looking for one of the trendiest quartz colours, Calacatta Gold Quartz is the right one.

2. Manufacturing

Let’s start with how these two very different worktop materials are created. Their origins and production methods are miles apart. This difference shapes everything about the final product. So, let’s see how they are made.

• Quartz

The popular option is an engineered stone, commonly called “Quartz.” It is made in a controlled factory setting. The process begins with grinding natural quartz crystals into a fine aggregate. These crushed crystals are then mixed with strong polymer resins that act as a binding agent.

Interestingly, colour pigments are added at this stage to give the slabs their specific look. The mixture is then pressed into slabs under high pressure and vibration. As a result, a dense and non-porous material came into the showrooms of DIY Kitchens Worktop to become a central part of your kitchens and bathrooms.

• Soapstone

This beautiful surface is a natural stone, just like marble and granite. It is formed deep underground over millions of years. Soapstone is quarried directly from the earth in large blocks. These blocks are then cut into slabs using large saws.

The surface is typically honed or polished to a smooth finish. Each slab is unique, displaying natural variations in colour and veining. It is a direct product of geological processes, simply extracted and shaped.

Who Wins?

The way these materials are brought to life is completely different. But whose manufacturing process is worth it? Quartz! It is engineered for consistency, while soapstone is a gift from nature. So, this difference matters a lot as it sets the first brick for other qualities of their surface.

3. Heat-Resistant

Can you put a hot pan down without worrying about damage? Let’s compare how Quartz vs Soapstone perform when you put hot things on their surfaces.

• Quartz

This engineered surface is pretty good with heat from normal cooking. The natural quartz crystals inside can easily handle high temperatures very well. But, the resins used to hold the crystals together are the weak spot.

Extreme heat, like placing a very hot pot straight from the stove or oven, can easily scorch, melt, or discolour the resin. This leaves permanent marks. It is always best to use a trivet or hot pad to protect this surface from heat.

• Soapstone

This natural stone is incredibly heat resistant. Soapstone formed under heat and pressure deep underground. It can easily handle hot pots and pans placed directly on its surface without scorching or melting.

Furthermore, you don’t need to worry about using trivets for heat protection with soapstone. It absorbs and radiates heat evenly. This makes it a very practical surface right next to your hob or oven.

Who Wins?

Both materials handle typical kitchen heat well but have different sensitivities. Hence, it is a tie. Now, you can find out which material’s heat properties fit your cooking style.

4. Stain-Resistant

How well do these surfaces handle drops of coffee, wine, or oil? Keeping your worktops looking clean is important. Let’s see how Quartz and Soapstone resist stains.

• Quartz

Engineered quartz stone is a fascinating surface when we talk about resisting stains. As you know, it is made with resins that create a completely non-porous slab. In this way, unwanted liquids substances in the kitchen or bathroom cannot get absorbed into the material at all.

Things like red wine, juice, or food colouring will not leave permanent marks. That’s why cleaning is super easy here. Usually, it just needs warm water and mild soap. This non-porous quality makes quartz incredibly hygienic and stain-proof under normal kitchen use. You don’t have to rush to clean up every little drip.

• Soapstone

This is a natural stone that is also naturally non-porous because of its high talc content. This means liquids will not soak in and cause deep stains like they do on more porous stones. However, soapstone can react to acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar.

These can cause etching, which looks like dull spots on the surface. Although it is not a stain in the traditional sense, etching changes the finish. According to the advice of our experts, oiling soapstone regularly helps to hide these marks and deepen its colour.

Who Wins?

For worry-free cleanup without the risk of etching, we prefer Quartz. It is completely non-porous and resists all common kitchen stains. That’s how this makes life easier.

5. Consistent Appearance / Uniformity

Do you want your worktop to look exactly like the sample piece? Or do you prefer something completely unique? How consistent the material looks is a big difference here. Let’s see how predictable these two surfaces are.

• Quartz

Quartz kitchen countertops are made professionally to show perfect uniformity and consistency. Its manufacturing process is highly controlled. This guarantees that the colour, pattern, and texture are incredibly consistent from one slab to the next.

If you order multiple pieces for a large kitchen, they will match flawlessly without a mistake of a single vein. Actually, what you see in a small sample will be similar to what the full installed worktop will look like.

This engineered predictability trust makes planning, designing, and renovating your DIY kitchen design simple. Plus, it removes any visual surprises.

• Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural stone that is all about unique variation. And that’s its beauty! Every single slab of soapstone is different but has a deep connection with one another.

The veining patterns, the depth of colour, and the mineral inclusions vary greatly from one piece to another. What if they are made from the same quarry? Still, all slabs made from the same quarry will be different.

You absolutely must view the actual slabs you plan to purchase. A small sample gives you an idea, but the full slab will have its own natural character. This natural variation is a key part of soapstone’s charm and appeal.

Who Wins?

Quartz is the right choice for getting a look that is exactly as expected. So, this man-made material is the clear winner. Its engineered process guarantees uniformity across slabs.

6. Water-Resistant

There is a lot of water usage in kitchens and bathrooms. Sometimes, Splashes, spills, humidity are just everywhere in these areas. But the concern is: How do these worktops hold up against moisture? Let’s see which one is the champ against water.

• Quartz

Quartz is a superstar when it comes to water. Remember those resins in it? They make quartz completely non-porous. Zero tiny holes for water to sneak into. As a result, liquids just sit right on top.

They don’t get absorbed at all. This makes quartz perfect for wet areas. Take an example of those sinks, dishwashers, and prep zones. You will never get water damage or stains soaking in. It is built to handle moisture without a fuss.

• Soapstone

Natural soapstone also does a great job with water. It has a naturally high talc content. This makes it incredibly dense and non-porous, too. Just like quartz, water does not penetrate the surface.

And spills do not soak in and cause internal damage. It is naturally resistant to moisture absorption. This non-porous quality is one of soapstone’s best features. It makes it very practical for areas around water sources.

Who Wins?

Both materials are excellent against water because they are non-porous. It is a tie today. Both stand up to moisture beautifully. Consider either for wet areas in your home.

7. Price

How much will these beautiful worktops cost you? Let’s walk through this section to find which one is costly: quartz worktop or soapstone worktop.

• Quartz

Quartz worktops come at a range of prices. Simpler colours and patterns are usually less expensive. Those that mimic natural stone, like marble, with complex veining can cost more. To be honest, quartz sits in the mid to high price range for worktop materials.

It is not the cheapest option out there. But you are paying for its engineered benefits. Besides that, the cost includes manufacturing consistency and durability. At DIY Kitchens Worktop, get a free quote to see exactly what your chosen style costs.

• Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural stone, and its price can vary. The cost depends on where it is quarried and how rare the particular slab’s colour or veining is. Soapstone is often considered a premium worktop material.

It is more expensive than many engineered options. Its unique natural beauty and feel contribute to its price. In fact, installation costs can also factor in.

Who Wins?

Generally speaking, Quartz is a more budget-friendly option across its range. So, Quartz wins on price accessibility. You can get a free quote for your favourite quartz countertop style today.

8. Maintenance

It is important to keep your worktops clean and beautiful. Some materials need more work than others. Let’s see how much attention Quartz vs Soapstone demand.

• Quartz

Maintaining quartz is incredibly simple. In simple words, spills just wipe away easily because of its surface that resists every outside interference. You only need warm water and mild soap for daily cleaning.

No special chemicals are necessary. Importantly, quartz never needs sealing like granite or marble. This saves you time and money over the years. It resists most stains naturally. You can keep it sparkling with minimal effort every day. Thus, it is built for busy lives.

• Soapstone

Soapstone needs a different kind of care. It doesn’t require sealing against liquids because it is non-porous. However, regular oiling is recommended to maintain its dark colour and hide minor scratches or etching.

This oiling enhances its patina over time. Scratches can be sanded out if needed, which is unique. It requires a bit more hands-on attention than quartz to keep its original look.

Who Wins?

For pure ease and minimal ongoing work, Quartz takes the prize. It requires no sealing or regular oiling. So, you can pick quartz for the lowest maintenance option.

9. Durability

Worktops see a lot of action. Pots, pans, knives, spills. You need a surface that can take it. So, let’s compare the durability of Quartz and Soapstone countertops.

• Quartz

Homeowners love quartz because of its significant toughness. It is very hard and highly resistant to scratches from normal kitchen activities. Dropping something can cause a chip, but it resists scuffs and scrapes much better than many other surfaces.

Furthermore, the manufacturing process creates a dense slab, which is either 20mm or 30mm thick. It holds up well to everyday wear and tear. Thus, this resilience is a main selling point for busy households seeking a robust surface.

• Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural stone, but it is softer than materials like granite or quartz. This means it is more prone to scratches and dents. Sharp knives or heavy objects can mark the surface more easily.

Although it handles heat very well, its physical hardness is lower. A unique aspect is that minor scratches can be sanded out. However, it requires care to keep the surface smooth and unblemished.

Who Wins?

Quartz is the winner for superior resistance to scratches and chips from daily use. It offers higher physical durability. Let’s choose quartz for maximum durability against bad impacts.

10. Edge Profile

The shape of the worktop edge adds style and affects safety. The rule of thumb is: Different materials allow for different edge designs. Let’s see the options you have with these materials.

• Quartz

DIY worktop quartz offers amazing versatility in terms of edge profiles or edging. Because it is engineered and very hard, you can cut and shape it into many different styles. You can have simple eased edges, crisp bevels, smooth bullnoses, or decorative ogees.

The material’s consistency allows for precise, neat, and clean lines on any profile. This huge range means you can perfectly match your worktop edge to your kitchen’s design style, from modern to traditional.

• Soapstone

On the flip side, soapstone is a softer and delicate natural stone. You can shape it according to your need but the edge options are sometimes more limited compared to harder stones or quartz. Simpler, easy, and rounded edges like eased or bullnose are popular choices for it.

They suit the soft feel of the stone. Also, they are less prone to chipping than sharp edges. Very intricate or delicate profiles are not as durable on soapstone. Its natural character often pairs well with straightforward, classic edge designs.

Who Wins?

Quartz secured first position for the widest selection of precise and complex edge profiles. Its engineered nature allows for extensive shaping. It’s time to choose quartz for maximum design flexibility on edges.

11. Eco-Friendly

Being green is important. We want materials that are kind to the earth. Here, we are going to look at the environmental impact of the following types of worktop material.

• Quartz

Quartz worktops have environmental considerations. Their manufacturing process requires effort and energy. It also uses resins, which are typically petroleum-based. Some quartz products do incorporate recycled materials, like glass or mirrors.

This helps improve their eco-profile. Fuel is used to transport engineered slabs. As it is durable, it is a factory-made product (not found ready-to-use in nature). So, choosing brands with recycled content is a greener option here.

• Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural gift from the earth. It is quarried directly, not manufactured in a factory. Extraction and cutting require energy and impact the site. And transporting the heavy slabs also uses fuel.

However, it is a purely natural material that lasts for a very long time while reducing waste over decades. In addition to that, it doesn’t off-gas harmful chemicals. Its natural state and longevity are the best eco-benefits.

Who Wins?

As a purely natural material, Soapstone often edges out quartz for eco-friendliness. It avoids chemical resins and heavy factory processing. But, quarrying of natural resources deep from the core of Earth is itself bad for the ecosystem. So, it’s a tie.

12. Value of Property

Kitchens sell homes because the worktop is a major focal point. If you install a desirable worktop material, it can increase your property’s appeal and value. Let’s see how Quartz worktops vs Soapstone stack up.

• Quartz

Installation of quartz worktops is always seen as a significant upgrade. Its popularity, modern look, and perceived low maintenance are very attractive to potential buyers. That’s why buyers appreciate the durability and stain resistance quartz offers.

Moreover, the wide variety of colours and patterns means it can suit many design tastes. It showcases an up-to-date kitchen renovation. This makes your home more appealing and can lead to a higher selling price.

• Soapstone

Soapstone adds a unique and high-end touch to a kitchen. Its natural beauty and uniform character attracts buyers that are looking for something different and classic. Those who appreciate natural materials and the aging process love soapstone.

We understand that it is not as universally known as quartz. But it is recognized as a premium surface. For the right buyer, its distinctive look and feel is a major selling point, adding considerable value and charm.

Who Wins?

Quartz has broader appeal to a wider range of buyers in today’s market. Its low maintenance is a big draw. So, always choose quartz for a worktop because most buyers will appreciate it.

13. UV Rays Resistance

Sunlight contains UV rays that can affect some materials. This is a great factor to consider if you intended to install worktops near windows or in very sunny kitchens. Let’s see how these engineered vs natural slabs will handle the sun’s power.

• Quartz

Quartz worktops are sensitive to direct UV exposure. Prolonged exposure of these slabs in the sunlight is also damaging for them. The resins that hold the quartz crystals together can become yellowish or fade over time when constantly hit by sunlight.

This is more noticeable in lighter coloured quartz slabs. Because of this, quartz is not recommended for outdoor kitchens. It should be used with caution near large windows that get direct sun all day. So, it’s proven that fading is an issue here.

• Soapstone

Natural soapstone is highly resistant to UV rays. Being a natural stone formed over millions of years, sunlight does not cause any negative impact on it. That’s why it does not fade or change colour permanently.

Its appearance can evolve over time through the development of a patina, but this is a natural process unrelated to UV damage. You don’t need to worry about placing soapstone near sunny windows. It will maintain its colour integrity under sunlight exposure.

Who Wins?

For complete resistance to fading from UV rays, Soapstone is the definite winner. It is unaffected by sunlight.

14. Repairability

Worktops can get damaged over time. Knowing if a surface can be repaired is important for its longevity. Let’s compare how easy it is to fix Quartz vs Soapstone.

• Quartz

It is a bit of a tricky method to repair damage to quartz slabs. Chips and cracks are difficult to make disappear completely. Minor chips can sometimes be filled with a colour-matched epoxy resin.

However, it is hard to hide the repair, especially on surfaces with complex patterns. Not only that, large cracks are very challenging to fix invisibly. So, professional help is often needed for anything beyond a tiny surface mark. In short, seamless repair is not guaranteed.

• Soapstone

Soapstone is surprisingly easy to repair minor surface damage. Scratches are common because it is a softer stone. The great thing is, you can usually fix these yourself.

A light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper will remove most scratches. Then you just re-oil the area, and it blends in. Remember, deeper marks need more sanding. This DIY repairability for scratches is a unique advantage of soapstone.

Who Wins?

For dealing with everyday scratches yourself, Soapstone is the winner. Its ability to be sanded makes minor repairs easy for homeowners.

15. DIY Kitchens & Bathrooms Projects

Handling and installing worktops is a big part of a renovation project. Can you install Quartz or Soapstone yourself? Let’s see what’s involved for a DIYer.

• Quartz

Installing quartz is not an easy DIY job. The slabs are extremely heavy and require special equipment to move safely. Cutting quartz needs professional tools, especially for sink cutouts and complex shapes.

Besides that, getting seamless joints also requires expertise. Professional installation ensures the worktop is properly supported and fitted. Attempting a DIY install can lead to damage, void warranties, and be dangerous. It is best left to the experts for a perfect finish.

• Soapstone

On the other side, soapstone is softer than quartz, which makes cutting slightly easier if you have the right tools and experience. However, like quartz, soapstone slabs are very heavy. Moving them requires multiple strong people and proper lifting gear.

Precision is still needed for cuts and fitting. It is theoretically possible for a highly skilled and equipped DIYer but professional installation is strongly recommended. Its weight and value mean mistakes are costly.

Who Wins?

Neither material is a DIY installation material for the average homeowner. Both require professional handling and tools. Plan for professional installation for either choice.

Final Score: Who’s the Winner?

And there you have it. We compared Quartz and Soapstone across 15 key features. Quartz won in 9 categories, including Aesthetics, Manufacturing, Stain-Resistance, Consistency, Price, Maintenance, Durability, Edge Profile, and Property Value. Soapstone took wins in 2 areas: UV Resistance and Repairability.

We had ties for Heat Resistance, Water Resistance, Eco-Friendliness, and DIY Installation suitability. Quartz emerges as the overall winner in this comparison based purely on the number of wins in our head-to-head features.

You can get your quartz worktops from one of the leading providers all over the UK, “DIY Kitchens Worktop.” Call us at 01923223859 or 07432065334.