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EST. 1980

INSIGHTS

Why granite aggregate? The case for crushed granite in construction

Granite's hardness, low water absorption and angular fracture make it a dependable aggregate for roads and structural concrete. Here is why it matters.

12 Nov 2025 Upper Quarry Technical Team

Crushed granite is the workhorse aggregate of serious construction in northern Ghana. Its physical properties — hardness, density and the angular shape of the crushed particle — make it well suited to the loads roads and structures have to carry. This article explains what to look for and why the source rock matters.

What makes granite a good construction aggregate?

Granite is an igneous rock with high compressive strength and low water absorption. Crushing it produces angular, interlocking particles that bind well in concrete and asphalt and resist crushing under traffic. Compared with softer or rounded river material, crushed granite gives more predictable strength and better long-term durability.

Where is granite aggregate used?

  • Structural concrete — 14mm to 20mm chippings for columns, beams and slabs.
  • Roads — crusher-run for base and sub-base, smaller chippings for surface dressing and asphalt.
  • Blocks and screeds — quarry dust as a fine aggregate for blockmaking and finishing.

How does Pwalugu granite compare?

The Pwalugu deposit is a Birimian muscovite-biotite granite — a hard, well-cemented rock that crushes to clean, strong chippings. Because it is quarried and graded locally, buyers in the Upper East and Northern regions avoid the long haul from southern sources, which lowers delivered cost and lead time. Pricing on this site is indicative; confirm by quote.

Frequently asked questions

Is granite better than river gravel for concrete?
For structural concrete, crushed granite generally performs better: its angular particles interlock and it has higher strength and lower water absorption than rounded river gravel.
What granite sizes do you supply?
We supply 6mm, 10mm, 14mm, 19/20mm and 25mm chippings plus quarry dust and crusher-run. See the Granite Aggregate page for the full grade table.
Where is your granite quarried?
At our quarry in Pwalugu, Talensi District, in the Upper East Region — the first quarry established in the region.

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