Have questions about ground penetrating radar, concrete scanning, or how the process works on your job site? Below are answers to common questions we receive from contractors, project managers, and facility teams.

Ground Penetrating Radar and Concrete Scanning

Ground penetrating radar is a non-destructive method used to identify embedded objects within concrete. It helps locate items like rebar, conduit, and post-tension cables before cutting or drilling.

Concrete scanning is the process of using tools like ground penetrating radar to detect and map objects inside concrete slabs, walls, and structures.

Ground penetrating radar can help identify:

  • Rebar and reinforcement
  • Post-tension cables
  • Electrical conduit
  • Plumbing lines
  • Other embedded obstructions

Planning and Job Site Use

Concrete scanning should be scheduled before cutting, coring, drilling, or anchoring into concrete. Early scanning helps avoid conflicts and keeps projects on schedule.

Yes. We mark findings directly on the concrete surface so your team can better understand where it is safe to proceed and where to avoid.

Yes. Drawings are helpful, but they do not always reflect current conditions. Scanning provides real-time verification of what is inside the concrete.

Ground penetrating radar is commonly used for:

  • Core drilling and penetrations
  • Saw cutting and trenching
  • Remodels and tenant build-outs
  • Facility upgrades and maintenance

Utility Locating and Detection

Concrete scanning identifies embedded objects within concrete. Utility locating focuses on identifying embedded utilities, such as conduit and plumbing lines, to help plan penetrations more safely.

No. Ground penetrating radar and concrete scanning are used for embedded objects within concrete. 811 is used for underground utilities outdoors.

Scheduling and What to Expect

We typically need:

  • Jobsite address
  • Contact information
  • Description of the work area
  • Timeline
  • Plans or sketches (if available)

Because we perform in-house concrete scanning, scheduling is straightforward. Share your timeline and we will confirm availability.

Scan time depends on the size of the area and site conditions. Smaller areas can often be completed quickly, while larger or more complex projects may take longer.

We mark findings directly on the surface and provide a field report to support next steps and documentation.

Depth depends on slab conditions and composition, but ground penetrating radar can typically detect objects several inches below the surface. Performance may vary based on site conditions.

Yes. Ground penetrating radar can be used on walls, columns, and other vertical concrete elements to help identify embedded objects before drilling or anchoring.

Accuracy can be influenced by factors such as concrete thickness, moisture content, reinforcement density, and surface conditions. Our technicians interpret results based on these conditions to provide the most accurate information possible.

Yes. We mark findings directly on the concrete surface so your crew can clearly see where to proceed and where to avoid.

In many cases, yes. We can coordinate scanning with your schedule so your team can move forward as soon as possible.

Schedule Ground Penetrating Radar Services

If you are planning to cut, core, or drill into concrete, schedule ground penetrating radar services before work begins to reduce risk and avoid costly issues.

Reach out to us and share your project details today.