The Weight of a Soapstone Sink

Soapstone sinks, popular in old farmhouse kitchens in the 1800s and more recently in high school science labs, are becoming popular once again in residential kitchens and bathrooms. Unlike stainless steel or porcelain, soapstone's nonporous surface is stain-resistant. The color deepens with age, edges and corners soften with wear and many soapstone sinks last for years, but soapstone is heavy. A square foot slab can average 20 pounds, and it's not uncommon for soapstone sinks to weight more than 200 pounds. For the weekend handyman, a soapstone sink may be too heavy and cumbersome to install alone.

Soapstone is composed of magnetite, dolomite, chlorite and talc. Talc, a naturally occurring mineral, gives soapstone its soft, soapy texture. There are two varieties of soapstone. One, commonly used by sculptors, has a talc rating average 75 to 80 percent. The other, architectural soapstone or stearite, has a lower talc content and works well in countertop, sink, cookware and architectural design. Like other natural stones such as granite and marble, soapstone is mined; but its density and weight, attributable to the talc conent, are far greater. (Reference 6)

Soapstone sinks are prefabricated from slabs or carved from a solid block. Joints in prefabricated sinks are sealed with epoxy-type glues; though durable, wear and tear can dry out the epoxy seal. Solid-carved soapstone sinks don't have joints, are installed as a single unit and are exceedingly heavy. If you choose a soapstone sink, according to the CounterSpecialty.com, expect to spend much more for the stone and shipping. Also, installation of a soapstone sink requires additional cabinet bracing to support the stone's weight. (Reference 4)

Soapstone is inert, an appealing quality of the stone. Acidic foods and alkaline cleaners won't react with the stone. It's also nonporous and stain-resistant. It remains warm to the touch, comes in green, brown or dark gray colors, all which deepen with age.Though the surface scratches easily, with a little fine steel wool and regular mineral oil application, the stone maintains a rich luster.

According to the site, The Maine Soapstone Company, a square foot slab of soapstone with a 1-1/4-inch thickness can weigh more than 20 pounds, (Reference 1) 180 pounds per cubic . (Reference ) While sink design varies, it's not uncommon for a soapstone sink to weigh more than 200 pounds.(Resource 1)

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Some images of soapstone carving with links to original sources.
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The Maine Soapstone Company - Countertops, sinks, hearths, more.