Granite countertops have long been a favorite in kitchens and bathrooms—they’re durable, stylish, and luxurious. But lately, homeowners in Little Rock, Sherwood, and beyond are asking:
👉 What are people using instead of granite?
Whether it’s cost, maintenance, or a desire for a fresh new look, many are swapping granite for exciting new materials that offer the same beauty with fewer hassles.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
✔ Why homeowners are moving away from granite
✔ The best granite alternatives trending in 2025
✔ How to choose the right countertop for your space
✔ Where to find affordable, high-quality options in Central Arkansas
Why People Are Moving Away from Granite
Granite remains a solid choice for many homes in Benton, Conway, and Jacksonville, but it’s not perfect. Here’s why some homeowners are choosing other options:
🔸 High Maintenance – Granite needs annual sealing to prevent stains. Skip it, and that coffee spill in your Conway kitchen could last forever.
🔸 Cost – With installation ranging from $50 to $100 per square foot, granite can be expensive—especially for budget-savvy homeowners in Beebe and Pine Bluff.
🔸 Limited Style Options – While granite offers natural beauty, some feel its busy patterns look outdated compared to today’s sleek, modern countertop trends.
So, what are the best alternatives? Let’s check out the materials that are replacing granite in homes across Central Arkansas.
Top Granite Alternatives Taking Over in 2025
These stylish and practical countertops are giving granite some serious competition.
1. Quartz: The Low-Maintenance Favorite
Quartz countertops—made from crushed stone and resin—are taking over kitchens in Maumelle, Bryant, and Cabot. They mimic granite’s natural beauty but require zero sealing and are stain-resistant.
💰 Cost: $40-$70 per square foot installed
✅ Why It Wins: Non-porous (no sealing!), tons of colors, and super durable
🏡 Best For: Busy kitchens in Little Rock or Sherwood where spills happen often
💡 Local Tip: Visit The Countertop Store in North Little Rock (501-658-6511) to see quartz options up close!
2. Porcelain Slabs: The Stylish Powerhouse
Porcelain isn’t just for tiles anymore—full porcelain slabs are one of the fastest-growing countertop trends. They’re thin, sleek, and can mimic granite or marble while being tough as nails.
💰 Cost: $30-$60 per square foot installed
✅ Why It Wins: Heat- and scratch-proof, modern aesthetic, and easy to clean
🏡 Best For: Minimalist kitchens in Conway or Hot Springs where sleek style matters
3. Solid Surface (Like Corian): The Seamless Wonder
Solid surface countertops (like Corian) are making a comeback—offering a smooth, seamless finish that mimics polished stone but without the high maintenance.
💰 Cost: $35-$60 per square foot installed
✅ Why It Wins: No visible seams, repairable scratches, and stain resistance
🏡 Best For: Pine Bluff or Benton homes that want a clean, modern look
4. Butcher Block: The Warm, Rustic Choice
Wood countertops are surging in popularity, especially dark-stained butcher block that offers depth similar to granite. They add warmth to any kitchen and look great in farmhouse-style homes.
💰 Cost: $20-$50 per square foot installed
✅ Why It Wins: Eco-friendly, easy to DIY, and budget-friendly
🏡 Best For: Searcy or Beebe homes wanting a cozy, natural feel
💡 Visual Tip: Add a comparison chart—Granite vs. Quartz vs. Porcelain.
Alt text: “Granite vs. quartz vs. porcelain countertops for a Little Rock kitchen.”
How to Choose the Right Granite Alternative
With so many great options, how do you pick the best one for your home?
🔹 Budget-Friendly? Butcher block or solid surface are affordable options for a Sherwood remodel.
🔹 Want Granite’s Shine? Quartz or porcelain slabs deliver a similar look for a Conway kitchen refresh.
🔹 Hate Maintenance? Quartz and solid surface are sealing-free—ideal for busy homes in Maumelle.
🔹 Need Ultimate Durability? Porcelain withstands high heat and scratches—a top pick for Benton families.
💡 See It Before You Buy: Visit The Countertop Store (thecountertopstore.co) to touch and compare different materials in person.
✔ Real-Life Win: A North Little Rock family switched from granite to quartz, saved $500, and never worried about sealing again!
Why These Alternatives Beat Granite
Still unsure? Here’s why these countertops are dominating in 2025:
✔ Less Maintenance – No more sealing! Quartz and porcelain resist stains naturally.
✔ More Color Choices – Unlike random granite patterns, quartz and solid surface offer custom colors for a trendy, modern vibe.
✔ Eco-Friendly Options – Butcher block and porcelain are more sustainable than quarried stone.
💡 Pro Tip: Email The Countertop Store (thecountertopstore.co) for eco-friendly countertop ideas!
Overcoming Challenges with Granite Alternatives
Even the best countertops have downsides. Here’s how to handle common issues:
🔥 Heat Sensitivity – Butcher block and some quartz don’t love hot pans. Fix? Use trivets.
💰 Cost Concerns – Porcelain installation can be pricey—grab remnants at Remnants Near Me for major savings.
🎨 Limited Patterns – Solid surface lacks granite’s natural veining—add a bold backsplash for contrast.
💡 Visual Tip: Include a before & after photo of a granite-to-quartz kitchen upgrade in Conway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Granite Alternatives
What’s the #1 Granite Alternative?
👉 Quartz—durable, stylish, and low-maintenance.
Are These Countertops Cheaper Than Granite?
👉 Yes! Butcher block and solid surface are budget-friendly in Pine Bluff.
What’s the Best Alternative That Looks Like Granite?
👉 Quartz and porcelain slabs mimic granite beautifully—check out samples at The Countertop Store (501-658-6511).
Where Can I See These Countertops in Person?
👉 Visit The Countertop Store in North Little Rock—email thecountertopstore.co to schedule a visit!
Ditch Granite & Upgrade to a Better Countertop
So, what are people using instead of granite?
✨ Quartz, porcelain, solid surface, and butcher block are the new go-to choices—bringing style, savings, and zero maintenance headaches.
From Little Rock to Benton, Sherwood to Cabot, homeowners are rethinking countertops—and you can too!
🚀 Ready to swap granite for something better?
👉 Check out Remnants Near Me for discounted premium countertops in Central Arkansas!
