Yes, it can. Unlike with X-ray, where both sides of a concrete slab must be accessible to obtain a picture of the subsurface structure, GPR only requires access to one side of a slab to obtain a comprehensive view of what’s inside. This makes it an ideal technology for evaluating concrete slab-on-grade.

GPR on its own does not tell you what type of object has been located, which is why it is inadvisable to attempt to complete this type of work yourself. Fortunately, OC Coring Project Managers are uniquely equipped to interpret the data collected by a GPR scanner to identify the type of embedded material present. Every OC Coring Project Manager is required to complete the Subsurface Investigation Methodology (SIM) training program, which involves 320 hours of field training and 80 hours of classroom training. Through this regimen, our Project Managers tackle real-world scenarios in a safe and structured environment where they can learn to tackle these challenges with the highest level of accuracy and professionalism.

When operated by our highly trained Project Managers, GPR’s typical accuracy is +/- ¼” to the center of the object in concrete we locate: conduit, post tension cables, and rebar. We can also pinpoint the depth of every object we locate in concrete with an accuracy of +/- 10-15%. Because our accuracy while scanning with GPR is so high, we can offer you our professional opinion to help you know where you are able to drill without the risk of hitting any objects marked on the slab. For safety concerns, we always tell our contractors to move one-to-two inches from any marked line as they prepare to cut or drill to be sure they safely miss any embedded objects.

No. This concern usually comes from someone familiar with X-ray technology, which carries the health risk of radiation-exposure. This is one of many reasons why concrete scanning and imaging with GPR is considered a safer, more efficient, and ultimately more successful alternative to X-ray. The typical power output of a GPR antenna is less than what is produced by the cell phone in your pocket. As a result, there are no health concerns with our Project Managers, construction workers, or tenants in the building where scanning is taking place. Additionally, GPR scanning is a quiet process, so noise issues are also not a concern.

Ground penetrating radar is an extremely efficient and rapid technology. Large areas can be easily and quickly scanned with the state-of-the-art GPR units utilized by OC Coring Project Managers. Our standard layout for a typical core drilling location is 2’x2’. It usually takes about 10 minutes to scan and mark an area this size.