What is the Average Cost of Soapstone Countertops?
April 29, 2021
5 min read
5 min read
A beautiful countertop is a lovely addition to any home’s aesthetic. Given the many different types of countertop materials available in the market, it is normal for a buyer to be torn between several types. One of the main determinants when purchasing a countertop is the cost. People who are building or renovating their homes most often have a budget, and they strive to stick to it. Picking an item that is out of the budget range can either ruin the overall budget or lower the value of a home. Soapstone is one of the most commonly stones used to make countertops.
What is soapstone?
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock that is formed when talc and other minerals combine. Soapstone is a natural stone with a soapy feel that’s comparable to the touch of a dry bar of soap. Its softness or hardness is determined by the amount of talc in the stone. A soapstone that has a high talc content tends to be softer and is referred to as artistic soapstone. The other type is architectural soapstone. This has a low talc content and is harder. In carving, the softer soapstone is preferred.
How much do soapstone countertops cost?
Soapstone is rarer than granite or quartz, which makes it one of the more expensive natural stone countertop options. Current Canadian market pricing (2025 estimates; verify locally as prices vary significantly by region and supplier) typically falls in the following ranges:
Material cost: $80–$150 per square foot for standard grey soapstone. Rarer green- or blue-toned slabs can exceed $200 per square foot due to limited availability.
Installation: $600–$1,000 for a standard 50 square foot kitchen countertop, depending on complexity of cutouts, edge profiles, and drainboard carving.
Total installed cost for 50 sq ft: $4,600–$8,500, depending on slab colour, edge profile, and drainboard specifications.
These are industry estimates for the Canadian market. Soapstone supply is limited and prices vary significantly between suppliers — obtain at least three quotes before committing. Prices have increased since pre-2022 levels due to supply chain and labour cost changes.
Among other factors that affect the cost of soapstone countertops include:
| Factor | Effect on cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Grey: standard price. Green or blue: +20–40% | Rare hues are quarried in limited quantities; supply is inconsistent |
| Edge cut | Eased edge: included. Decorative profiles (ogee, bullnose, cove): +$15–$40/linear ft | More intricate edges require more fabrication time |
| Source / origin | U.S.-mined soapstone typically costs more than Brazilian imports | Labour cost differentials at the quarry drive this gap |
| Drainboard design | Flat: minimal cost. Custom carved grooves: +$200–$500 | Custom drainboards require hand carving — a skilled fabricator-only task |
| Slab thickness | Standard (2–3cm): base price. Thicker slabs (4–6cm): +15–30% | Thicker slabs also require additional substrate support, adding to installation cost |
| Slab width | Oversized or book-matched slabs: +25–35% | Wide slabs require specialised handling and are more likely to crack during installation |
Here are some soapstone countertops pricing and installation tips:
- Shop around- When shopping for a soapstone countertop, get quotes from several different companies. The different pricing strategies can make the price of the same stone significantly different depending on who you purchase from.
- Discounts- Purchasing and installing soapstone countertops can be expensive. Saving and purchasing the soapstone countertops on a discount will help you stay within budget.
- To hire or DIY? – While the cost of installing soapstone countertops can be a bit high, prioritize getting a professional installation as opposed to DIY. Ask for recommendations and hire based on referrals. If you have basic carpentry skills and are capable of handling power tools, you may be able to install the soapstone countertop yourself. Since countertop soapstone has a high talc content, it should be simple to cut the slabs with a saw. Ensure you have a diamond-tip-fitted saw. To cut holes for drop-in sinks and a shaped profile edge, use a router with a diamond bit.
While soapstone makes great countertops, here is why you should consider quartz countertops as a better option.
- Availability of colours. Soapstone is only available in very few colours. This is because each slab is only available in the natural colours of the stone. Quartz countertops are available in a variety of colours. This means that you can get a uniform design and colour that blends with your home’s aesthetic, regardless of the size of your space.
- Soapstone darkens over time– While soapstone countertops are durable, they darken over time. It’s possible to slow the darkening by applying mineral oil to the surface regularly but you will inevitably end up with a darker countertop than you had initially envisioned for your space. Quartz countertops maintain their look ages after installation without any special treatment.
- Soapstone is rough to the touch– If you prefer a textured surface, then a soapstone countertop is the right choice for you. However, if you want a soft feel, quartz countertops will work perfectly in your space.
- Lack of uniformity– Natural stones are quarried in smaller slabs. As such, it is difficult to get exact colours and patterns from soapstone. The contrasting hues of grey may cause a dramatic look in your space. However, with quartz countertops, you are spoiled for choice with endless possibilities in terms of colour, pattern and finish.
