Soapstone countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their natural beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance. Installing a soapstone countertop is a DIY project that can be completed over a weekend with some basic DIY skills and tools. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a soapstone countertop.
Prepare the Work Area
The first step is to prepare the work area where you will be installing the soapstone slabs.
- Clear the countertop area completely by removing any existing countertop, sinks, faucets, and backsplashes.
- Protect the floors, walls, and cabinets around the work area using rosin paper or plastic sheeting. This prevents damage from any dust or debris generated during installation.
- Ensure you have adequate lighting and ventilation in the work area.
Measure and Cut the Soapstone Slabs
Once the work area is prepped, it’s time to measure and cut the soapstone slabs to size:
- Take accurate measurements of the countertop area. Include the depth, length, locations of sinks, cooktops, corners etc.
- Transfer the measurements to the soapstone slabs and mark cut lines using a straight edge and marker.
- Cut the slabs to size using a wet saw with a diamond blade. Make sure to factor in the thickness of the edges when cutting.
- Cut outs for sinks, cooktops or any appliances need to be made at this stage. Clamp slabs together when cutting outs to ensure uniformity.
- Sand edges smooth using 60-80 grit sandpaper.
Tip: Leave an extra 1/8″ – 1/4″ around the perimeter to account for any uneven walls or cabinets. This can be trimmed later.
Prepare the Base Cabinets
With the slabs cut to size, next get the base cabinets ready:
- Ensure the cabinet bases are level, stable, and aligned properly. Use shims if necessary to level cabinets.
- Protect the cabinet tops with rosin paper or cardboard.
- Apply a bead of construction adhesive or silicone caulk on the tops of the cabinets where the countertop will be placed.
Dry Fit the Soapstone Slabs
Dry fitting the slabs is an important step before permanently installing them:
- Place the cut soapstone slabs on top of the cabinets in their final position.
- Use C-clamps to hold adjoining pieces together.
- Check for proper alignment along the edges and seams. Use shims if there are any gaps.
- Make sure overhangs are even on sides and front. Adjust slabs if required.
- Do a test run for sink/cooktop cutouts to ensure proper openings.
- Mark any edges or corners that need trimming for a perfect fit.
- Once you have a perfect dry fit, number slabs and remove.
Apply Sealer
Sealing the bottom and edges of the soapstone slabs will prevent staining from adhesives:
- Wipe the bottom and cut edges of slabs clean using denatured alcohol.
- Apply 2-3 coats of food-safe penetrating sealer and let dry completely.
- Avoid getting sealer on the top polished surface.
Permanently Install the Countertops
With everything prepped, it’s now time for permanent installation:
- Run a continuous bead of clear 100% silicone caulk along the tops of the cabinet bases.
- Carefully lower the pre-cut and sealed soapstone slabs into position one by one.
- Make sure aligned properly and pressed down firmly into the caulk for good adhesion. Use shims if any gaps.
- Clamp adjoining slabs together and let the caulk cure as per manufacturer’s directions.
- Once cured, remove clamps and apply a thin bead of caulk along countertop seams and let dry.
- Carefully trim any overhanging edges with a circular saw for a perfect fit.
- Sand any rough edges smooth with 120-grit sandpaper.
- Thoroughly clean the countertops with soap and water once installed.
Apply Finish and Sealant
The final steps involve applying a protective finish and sealant:
- Wipe the installed soapstone countertops clean using denatured alcohol.
- Apply a food-safe mineral oil to build up and enhance the natural patina. Let it soak in fully.
- Buff off any excess oil with a clean cloth.
- Apply 3-4 coats of food-safe penetrating sealer letting each coat dry in between.
- This will make the countertops stain and water resistant.
- Avoid any sealer dripping on the sides of cabinets. Wipe off immediately if this happens.
- Do a final thorough cleaning with soap and water once sealing is complete.
Your new beautiful and durable soapstone countertops are now ready to use and enjoy! Proper prep work, accurate cutting, a good dry fit, and adequate sealing are the keys to successfully installing soapstone countertops. With some patience and DIY skills, you can have stunning countertops that will last for decades.
FAQs About Installing Soapstone Countertops
Some frequently asked questions about installing soapstone countertops:
Can I install soapstone countertops myself or do I need to hire a professional?
Soapstone countertops can definitely be installed as a DIY project. With some basic DIY skills, construction adhesives, and the right tools, most homeowners can install soapstone successfully themselves. Precision cutting is the most important factor.
What tools do I need to install a soapstone countertop?
Essential tools needed are a wet saw with a diamond blade for cutting, C-clamps, straight edges, shims, 100% silicone caulk, sandpaper, circular saw, mineral oil and sealer. Safety gear like eye protection and respirator is also a must.
How thick should a soapstone countertop be?
A standard thickness for soapstone countertops is between 1 – 2 inches. Thicker 3 cm slabs are recommended for heavily used surfaces like kitchen counters. Go even thicker for vanity tops or island counters.
Should I seal all sides of the soapstone slabs?
It’s highly recommended to seal the bottom and cut edges of soapstone slabs to prevent staining from adhesives and moisture. The top polished surface is naturally stain resistant and usually doesn’t need sealing.
What’s the best way to cut and shape soapstone?
The best way is using a wet saw with a diamond blade specifically for stone. For cut outs, drill holes at corners first and then cut with a jigsaw. File edges smooth with sandpaper. Avoid dry cutting as it creates dust.
How long does it take for silicone caulk to cure when installing soapstone?
100% silicone caulk usually takes 24-48 hours to fully cure. Avoid any stress on the countertops during this time. Refer to the caulk manufacturer’s directions for exact cure times.
How often should I reapply sealer to a soapstone countertop?
Penetrating sealers need to be reapplied once every 1-2 years depending on usage. Reseal any areas that show signs of staining or etching. Heavy use areas may need more frequent resealing.
Conclusion
Installing soapstone countertops is a very doable DIY project for any homeowner willing to put in some time and effort. With the right tools and preparation, you can have stunning and durable soapstone countertops that will enhance your kitchen or bath for decades to come. Just be sure to take accurate measurements, make precision cuts, properly seal the slabs, and take your time with the installation. The end result will be a countertop that looks amazing and functions just as beautifully.