The term ‘concrete inspection’ is a widely used and encompasses a range of activities, such as compression strength testing of concrete, concrete scanning, measuring the delamination in concrete, anchor pull testing of concrete fixtures, and much more. As we have associated the word ‘non-destructive’ with the phrase ‘concrete inspection,’ we will discuss only non-destructive methods of concrete building inspections that include GPR concrete scanning for concrete inspection, Windsor probe testing for measuring the compressive strength of concrete and sounding for delamination identification. Have a look at the benefits of non-destructive concrete building inspection.

Complete Concrete Inspection

GPR concrete scanning is the method that is used to locate the rebars, utilities, conduits and voids, measure slab thickness and inspect concrete structures. It provides a comprehensive view of the concrete slab, wall or column without destroying it, which is a major benefit. Finishing work contractors use GPR scanning to locate the utilities before making holes and openings in the concrete structure. This eliminates the chance of accidentally cutting conduits, utility lines and rebars which, in turn, result in increased costs and work efficiency. GPR concrete scanning can be used to detect metal, plastic, PVC, air pockets, voids and geological features.

Compression Strength Testing

Windsor probe testing is a very popular method for compressive strength testing of concrete. The main benefit is to ensure the stability and performance of the concrete structure by measuring its compressive strength. It can measure a maximum compressive strength of a concrete structure up to 17,000psi. Structural engineers use this method for building inspections and determining whether or not concrete structures are safe for use.

Identifying Weak Spots

Sounding is an on-field, non-destructive method of concrete inspection which is used to identify the delamination in concrete. Delamination is defined as the fall of concrete into layers. This occurs when a mixture of water, air and lighter materials are displaced, creating hollow areas in the concrete slab and resulting in the failure of the concrete surface. Delamination testing helps to identify these weak spots and gives maintenance work contractors an idea of the necessary patchwork to be performed.

The main benefits of non-destructive concrete building inspections are:
  • 1. Ensure the safety of the concrete structure.
  • 2. Avoid costly repairs.
  • 3. On-time project completion.
  • 4. Assist in installation operations.
  • 5. Ensuring the overall quality of the work performed.

How to Perform Non-Destructive Concrete Inspections?

Contractors can partner with professional concrete scanning, testing and inspection service companies to perform these tests on site. Professionals have the equipment and experience to perform these tests. However, you can also rent the necessary tools to inspect concrete structures.

At Concrete Insight, we have been doing concrete scanning, coring and testing for 25 years. We offer concrete GPR scanning, concrete coring, Windsor probe testing, crack monitoring and anchor pull testing services in Virginia, MD, DC and neighboring states.