Gourt > Business > Construction and Maintenance > Materials and Supplies > Masonry and Stone > Natural Stone > Soapstone
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock rich in magnesium and iron. It is produced by dynamothermal metamorphism, which occurs at the areas where tectonic plates are subducted, changing rocks by heat and pressure, and without melting. Steatite is a type of soapstone.
It is relatively soft, and may feel soapy when touched, hence the name. Soapstone is used for inlaid designs, sculpture and for kitchen countertops and sinks. Traditional Inuit carvings often use soapstone. Soapstone is sometimes used for fireplace surrounds because it can absorb and evenly distribute heat while being easy to manufacture. The same heat-trapping property makes it suitable for the manufacture of woodstoves. It is also used for griddles and other cookware.
Soapstone is also used by welders and fabricators as a marker because, due to its resistance to heat, it remains visible when heat is applied.
More on [ Soapstone ]
The Journal of Light Construction
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Use PVC trim to create a durable version of this classic cornice.
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Q: I've heard that if you use 5 1/2-inch-thick fiberglass batts in a 2x4 wall, the insulation will have a higher R-value than standard 3 1/2-inch batts provide. But some people say that compressing fiberglass batts lowers the R-value. What's the story?
Simple Sill Pans (Continued) (JLC August 2008)
Bill Robinson demonstrates how to fabricate a vinyl sill pan in this video supplement to his August article, "Simple Sill Pans."
Alberene Soapstone Company - Source for Virginia soapstone offering a wide range of custom architectural, decorative and landscaping products.
Bucks County Soapstone - Crafts soapstone countertops. Describes maintenance and care and provides pictures of designs during and after construction.
Meta Description: [ Bucks County Soapstone provides soapstone products found anywhere. We fabricate and install countertops for PA, NJ and DE. Our sinks and showerpans are shipped nationwide on a daily basis. ]
Old Mill Soapstone - Fabricates countertops, masonry heaters, sinks, and tubs. Provides overview of custom design services.
Meta Description: [ Old Mill Soapstone creates soapstone countertops, masonry heaters, sinks and
tubs - as well as custom designs - to meet your decorating or construction needs. ]
Soapstone West - San Diego resource for custom soapstone design and installation.
Meta Description: [ Get well-furnished soapstone products for your countertops, sinks, fireplaces, wood stoves and floors. Experience the beauty of soapstone surfaces in your life. ]
| Simpsons soap stone carvings from East Africa. The Master Carvers in Tabaka Kenya do it. 'Now we can pay the school fees ... | |
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