Concrete Scanning with GPR
Accurate Concrete Scans, Safer Decisions.
Avoid Change Orders, Rework, Utility Strikes, PT Cable, Rebar & Conduit. Find USTs, Abandoned Lines, Potential Voids & More.
Schematic diagram of a GPR survey. Reflected waves penetrating the subsurface travel at different velocities based on the dielectric permittivity (ε) of the media in which they encounter. All subsurface anomalies, such as the draining pipe, are observed by the GPR. The progression of the survey is represented by dashed lines. (source Brett Trottier, USGS)
What is Ground Penetrating Radar?
Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a non-destructive imaging technique that uses radar pulses to provide a picture of the subsurface. It works by sending short electromagnetic energy pulses into the ground and measuring the reflections that bounce back from subsurface objects or layers that have different electrical properties. This process is used to detect and map objects like utility lines, pipes, buried artifacts, and changes in geology.
We Scan For: Rebar, cables, and conduits before cutting or coring. Slab thickness, cracks, and hidden voids. Verification of as-built structures and repairs.
The Science Behind It
Concrete scanning, often referred to as concrete x-ray, utilizes ground penetrating radar (GPR) to detect and map the locations of various materials, both metallic and non-metallic, within concrete structures. This includes items like rebar, post-tensioning cables, conduits, pipes (metal and plastic), electrical cables, and other objects or anomalies near the surface.
The effectiveness of concrete scanning is significantly enhanced by the application of ground penetrating radar (GPR). GPR operates by emitting pulses of electromagnetic energy through the concrete via specialized antennas. These pulses reflect off embedded materials and return to the radar system, which analyzes the signals to accurately pinpoint the positions of objects hidden within the concrete.
How it Works
- Transmission: A GPR unit sends a radio frequency pulse into the ground via an antenna.
- Reflection: When the pulse encounters a boundary between materials with different electrical properties, a portion of the energy is reflected back to the surface.
- Reception: A receiver antenna captures the returning signals.
- Data analysis: The system records the time it takes for the signal to return and its strength. This data is processed to create an image or cross-section of the subsurface, which can be analyzed to identify buried objects, voids, or geological features.
Why It Matters
Every inch of concrete has a story. GPR scanning helps you read it safely. Avoid costly damage, stay compliant, and keep your project on schedule.
Who It Helps
No surprises. No downtime. Just smart, safe, and precise work – powered by radar.
Our mission is simple: provide clear, accurate information so every job gets done safely and efficiently. We’re proud to bring the expertise, reliability, and small-town work ethic that only years on real job sites can teach.
Homeowners
Renovating? We’ll check for pipes and wires before you drill.
Engineers
Get accurate subsurface data for reports and designs.
Contractors
Get clear marking of safe zones before you cut.
The Equipment We Use
We use professional Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) systems to locate what’s hidden—both in concrete and underground.
Concrete Scanning
For walls, slabs, and elevated decks, we use compact handheld and cart-mounted GPR units. These smaller scanners send high-frequency radar waves through the concrete to create real-time images of what’s inside. Rebar, conduits, post-tension cables, voids—we see it all and mark it clearly before any cutting or drilling begins.
Utility Locating
For larger outdoor projects, we use walk-behind GPR systems that reach deeper into the ground. These units are ideal for locating pipes, utilities, and subsurface features before excavation. Whether it’s a parking lot, job site, or open field, our equipment helps map out what’s below so you can dig with confidence.
Our technology is non-destructive, accurate, and efficient, giving you the information you need without ever breaking the surface.