Sunday, October 28, 2007
SOAPSTONE
Best for: Trophy kitchens or those that don’t get a lot of use.
Price: $60-$125 per square foot installed.
Pros: Earthy appeal that oxidizes over time to produce a dark color with light veining, nonporous, scratches can be repaired with sandpaper.
Cons: It’s soft and can chip, limited color choice, resists germs and bacteria.
Maintenance: Leave alone or rub with mineral oil every 4 to 6 weeks.
WOOD
Best for: Country-look kitchen or kitchen with mixed styles of countertops.
Price: $40-$65 per square foot installed.
Pros: Provides a warm and homey look, available in a wide range of colors and finishes, easy to clean, can be sanded and resealed, some are waterproof and scratch resistant, suited to imaginative shapes.
Cons: Can be damaged by oil and stains over time, but spills wipe up easily. Sanitize with 20 percent white vinegar and water, wipe with oil periodically.
Maintenance: Fine sandpaper removes surface scratches. Requires periodic sealing and refinishing to remove scratches, dings and dents. Apply satin finish oil to restore luster.