concrete scanning

GPR Scanning in

ATHEns, GA

ATHENS GPR Scanning Services

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a non-invasive technology used to image the subsurface. It’s widely applied in industries like construction, archaeology, geology, and environmental studies. GPR operates by sending electromagnetic waves into the ground and measuring the reflected signals that return from underground objects or material boundaries.


In Athens, GA, GPR is essential for non-destructive testing on concrete, soil, and asphalt. This technology can detect utilities, rebar, voids, and other subsurface features without disturbing the surface.


GPR systems consist of a control unit, an antenna, and a display. The antenna emits and receives radar waves, while the control unit processes the signals. The display provides real-time visualizations of what lies beneath the surface, allowing for accurate and efficient analysis.

Why GPR Investigations are Essential Before Concrete Cutting

Performing a GPR scan before any concrete cutting project in Athens, GA, is essential for both safety and efficiency. At Cobra Southeast, we use GPR technology to detect concealed elements like rebar, electrical conduits, and post-tension cables within concrete structures. Identifying these hidden features helps avoid accidental hits that could lead to damage, costly repairs, or project delays. Additionally, GPR provides critical data that enables more accurate planning, ensuring your construction project runs smoothly and on schedule.

  • Safety

    GPR helps identify and locate any hidden utilities or objects beneath the concrete surface, such as electrical cables, gas lines, water pipes, or rebar. Cutting into these utilities can cause serious accidents, injuries, or damage to infrastructure. GPR allows for the detection and avoidance of these hazards, ensuring the safety of workers and preventing costly repairs.

  • Cost-Savings

    Accidentally cutting into utilities or objects can result in expensive repairs, delays, and legal liabilities. By using GPR to locate and mark the position of these utilities before cutting, potential damages can be avoided, saving both time and money.


  • Efficiency

     GPR provides real-time, non-destructive scanning of the subsurface, allowing for quick and accurate identification of potential obstacles. This helps contractors plan their cutting or excavation activities more efficiently, reducing downtime and improving project timelines.

  • Accuracy

    GPR can provide detailed information about the depth, size, and location of objects beneath the concrete surface. This allows contractors to make informed decisions about the best approach for cutting or excavating, minimizing the risk of errors or damage.

  • Compliance

     In many job sites, it is a legal requirement to use GPR or similar technologies to locate utilities before cutting or excavating. By following these regulations, contractors can avoid penalties, legal issues, and damage claims.

A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey is conducted using the following steps:

  • Equipment Setup

    The GPR system consists of a control unit and a radar antenna. The antenna is connected to the control unit, and the system is powered on.

  • Calibration

    Before starting the survey, the GPR system is calibrated to ensure accurate data collection. This involves setting the appropriate parameters such as dielectric constant, time and linear gain, and background removal depth.


  • Data Collection

    The radar antenna is placed on the ground and moved along the survey area in a systematic pattern. The antenna emits electromagnetic waves into the ground, and the reflected signals are recorded by the system. The data is collected in the form of radargrams, which are cross-sectional images of the subsurface.

  • Data Interpretation

    The collected data is analyzed and interpreted to identify subsurface features and anomalies. This involves examining the amplitude, shape, and depth of the reflections to determine the presence of underground objects or structures.

  • Mapping and Reporting

    The interpreted data is used to create field markings, showing the location and characteristics of the detected features. A report is generated, summarizing the findings and providing recommendations if necessary.

It is important to note that conducting a GPR survey requires expertise in data interpretation and knowledge of the subsurface conditions. Professional geophysicists or surveyors are typically involved in performing and analyzing GPR surveys.

A spray painted grid of the underground utilities found with GPR scanning
A room with a lot of red and white tape on the floor to show where the underground utilities are found.

Applications of GPR Concrete Scanning

GPR concrete scanning is useful for a variety of construction and renovation projects. At Cobra Southeast, we utilize this advanced technology for several key applications:

  • Utility Locating

    Accurately pinpoint the location and depth of underground utilities like water lines, gas pipes, and electrical conduits before any cutting or drilling. This ensures safety and prevents costly damage to vital infrastructure.

  • Rebar Detection

    Our GPR scans map out rebar within concrete slabs, walls, and floors, helping avoid damage to structural reinforcements during drilling, coring, or sawing projects.

  • Void Detection

    GPR can detect voids or air pockets within concrete, critical for maintaining structural integrity and preventing foundation issues.

  • Post-Tension Cable Identification

    For post-tensioned structures, GPR identifies the location of cables, ensuring safe, accurate cutting without compromising the building’s stability.

What Can GPR Detect?

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a versatile tool used in construction projects. At Cobra Southeast, our advanced GPR technology can detect various subsurface elements, including:

  • Rebar and Mesh

    Identify steel reinforcements within concrete to avoid damaging them during drilling or cutting.

  • Post-Tension Cables

    Locate critical tensioned cables, ensuring they remain intact during construction activities.

  • Pipes and Conduits

    Accurately detect buried utilities like electrical, plumbing, and gas lines.

  • Voids and Air Pockets

    Uncover hidden gaps in concrete that could compromise the structure’s integrity.

  • Embedded Objects

    Detect anomalies such as rocks, debris, or foreign objects within concrete.

A live digital rendering of what's inside a concrete slab.

Service Specs:

Depth

Up to 16"-36" depending on site conditions

Type of Cut

Typical Depth Penetration

Materials Cut

Concrete, Rebar

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We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it.

Why ATHENS Trusts Us

Businesses and contractors across Georgia trust Cobra Southeast for dependable GPR scanning services because we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We know the importance of trust and open communication, which is why we collaborate closely with you to meet the unique demands of your project. Our commitment to safety and cutting-edge technology ensures each scan is performed with the highest level of accuracy and care, giving you the confidence and peace of mind necessary to move forward smoothly. When precision matters, Athens chooses Cobra Southeast.

Safety

At Cobra Southeast, safety is our top priority from the beginning to the end of every project. We take every precaution to protect our team, clients, and infrastructure, ensuring a secure work environment throughout the entire process.

Relationships

We believe in building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. By fostering trust and maintaining clear communication, we ensure the success of every project and establish partnerships that extend beyond completion.

Innovation

We are committed to finding better solutions and implementing innovative ideas to complete projects more efficiently. Our focus on cutting-edge technology and processes allows us to deliver high-quality results on time.

gpr concrete scanning FAQs

We've compiled this comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to provide you with quick and informative answers. Whether you're a new customer seeking information about our offerings or a returning customer with inquiries about using our platform, you'll find valuable insights here.

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  • How deep can you see into concrete?

    The antennas Cobra use can penetrate up to 18″ thick concrete on applications with both sides accessible by up to 36″.

  • Is GPR Safe?

    Absolutely. Much like ultrasound, the signals are very high frequency not unlike those of Wi-Fi or cellphones. The equipment is FCC approved and deemed safe for the operator and all persons nearby. It is much safer AND cost effective than X-ray inspections.

  • How Accurate Is GPR?

    On an average 6″ – 8″ slab on grade inspection, targets were located within 1/4″ of their markings laterally and within 1/4″ of their depth estimations. Markings are made as bold and clear as possible unless finished surfaces do not allow. If that is the case, other means are used such as masking tape, pencil, etc.

  • Why is GPR scanning important in construction projects?

    GPR scanning is crucial for locating rebar, post-tension cables, and utilities within concrete, helping to prevent accidental damage, ensure safety, and save time and money during construction.


  • Is GPR scanning effective for assessing the condition of concrete structures?

    Yes, GPR can identify voids, delamination, cracks, and other structural defects, aiding in condition assessment and maintenance planning.

  • How long does a typical GPR scanning project take?

    The duration of a GPR scanning project depends on the size and complexity of the structure. Small projects may take a few hours, while larger ones could take several days.

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