Professionals from different backgrounds rely on GPR in order to scan their subsurface. GPR scanning allows them to work in a safe environment and saves their time by giving quick results. With ground-penetrating Radar, it became possible to locate utilities like rebar, conduits, and wires inside the concrete and other surfaces. Architects, builders, electricians, and plumbers do not make a blind guess to create holes after the introduction to GPR. They use scanning equipment, know the safe and unsafe places in the slab, and perform drilling with confidence. This helps avoid unnecessary risks and prevents costly repairs, delays, and time.  

What is the primary goal of GPR services?

  GPR can see what the naked eye cannot. The primary purpose of GPR is to provide the workers with knowledge of utilities inside the concrete. The worker needs to know the location of pipes, wires, and metal inside the concrete. The prior knowledge of the utilities prevents nasty surprises on the construction site. Additionally, GPR scanning helps in determining the weak areas in the concrete and ground, such as voids and cave-ins.  

What is the working of the GPR scanner?

  A GPR scanner uses electromagnetic waves to scan the concrete. It is a nondestructive method and only requires access to one side of a wall or floor. As the professional rolls the concrete scanner over the surface, electromagnetic pulses are sent into the concrete. The time taken by electromagnetic pulses to reflect is noted, and further calculations are made to know whether the material inside is rebar, plastic, or metal. Not just the type but the exact location of the utility is also detected.   GPR scanning makes everything from seeing beneath to inside of concrete possible. It is the best tool to start safe electrical and plumbing work or home renovation.  

GPR scanning discovers the underground surprises

  Any ground on our planet can have a secret world of conduits, pipes, and archaeological remains. There is always a possibility of unforgotten tunnels and graves underground. The ground is also home to various underground communication cable systems. A GPR scan is a must before starting any construction project on the ground. There are chances of finding the following things underground:  
  • Conduits
  • Water pipelines
  • Sewerage
  • Drains
  • Tunnels
  • Electric lines
  • Natural gas pipes.
  If the government or a person starts an excavation project, it is essential to start it after concrete scanning to avoid any damage to the above-mentioned things.  

Things to know before scheduling GPR scanning:

  If you want to schedule a concrete scanning service, you need to know the factors that play an essential role in producing effective results.  
  • The first factor includes the description of the area to be scanned. If you give the correct description to the service provider, they will be able to get the right equipment to your location. However, you must ask the service provider to visit and inspect your location before requesting a quote.
  • Make sure the area to be scanned is clean and accessible, at least from one side. In case the site is not concrete but ground, the grass and bushes must be cut.
  • The next tip is to note the soil type. GPR works using electromagnetic energy, and the results of scanning depend on the electrical conductivity of the soil. GPR will penetrate up to different depths in the case of clay, sand, or tightly packed soil.
  • You also need to know your concrete scanning goal. Do you just want to test what is inside or beneath your concrete slab or ground, or do you need a fully formed report?
 

Why only professionals can get reliable scanning results?

  The process of concrete scanning is not just rolling the scanner over a subsurface. It requires an expert professional to get accurate scanning results. GPR doesn’t provide images of the utilities inside the concrete. It only shows deviations of reflected waves, and an engineer has to calculate the type of material based on readings and time. It takes proper training and years of experience to mark the location, size, and kind of hidden utility inside the concrete.  

In the end:

Concrete is a strong construction material, and it often requires coring and cutting. GPR scanning is a nondestructive method of scanning that must be performed before coring. It saves the life of workers and your construction.   If you are building a new home, school, office, or bridge, Concrete Insight is the best company to hire. We have an expert team of professionals who perform concrete coring, scanning, and strength testing. Now that you are here visit our services to learn more about us now!    

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about GPR Concrete Scanning

 

What is the primary goal of GPR services?

GPR's primary goal is to provide knowledge about utilities within concrete, such as pipes, wires, and metal, to prevent surprises and identify weak areas, like voids and cave-ins, during construction.

How does the GPR scanner work?

The GPR scanner uses electromagnetic waves to penetrate concrete, noting the time taken for pulses to reflect. It determines the type and exact location of utilities, making it a crucial tool for safe electrical, plumbing work, or renovations.

Why do professionals ensure reliable scanning results?

Concrete scanning requires expert interpretation of reflected waves to identify hidden utilities accurately. Proper training and experience are essential to mark location, size, and type of utilities inside concrete, ensuring worker safety and successful construction projects.