If part of your construction project involves working on an existing concrete surface, then you won't always know what lies underneath the space. If you don't have a sub-surface layout, then drilling or breaking into the concrete has some risks.

Before you start work, consider having a GPR concrete scan. These scans use ground-penetrating radar to look through the concrete to see what lies beneath it. Why is this a good idea?

1. Get a Non-Destructive Sub-Surface Analysis  

If can't start work on your project until you know what is under the concrete surface, then you have two choices. You can dig into the surface to see what you find or you can scan it from above.

Digging is a destructive process. Even if you don't run into any problems as you start to break up key areas, you will breach the surface. You'll have to make good any damage you cause at the end of your evaluation.

A concrete scan is a faster and easier evaluation technique. You use a non-destructive scan to map out the ground under the surface in precise detail. You don't have to drill or break the concrete to find out what you need to know,

2. Spot Underlying Problems

While you might not need to drill into a surface as part of your project, you still need to check that the concrete is in good shape before you start work. For example, you might need to check its integrity and strength if it will hold a build.

A GPR scan helps you do this. As well as analyzing underground infrastructure, a scan can highlight problems that you just can't see from the ground.

For example, gaps and holes sometimes occur under concrete. These voids affect the strength of the surface. They remove some of its normal ground support. Or, leaks in water pipes under the surface can damage the concrete or its metal reinforcements over time. They weaken the concrete.

If you scan for problems, then you get peace of mind if all looks OK. If the scan does spot a void or a leak, then you can fix the problem before you add loads to the surface. You can fix unseen problems and ensure that the surface is stable enough for your build.

3. Avoid Costly Damage

If you make a mistake when you build on an existing concrete surface, then your project costs will increase. For example, if you drill through a water pipe, then you'll have to break open the surface, fix the pipe, and then remake the surface. Your material and labor costs go up. Your project might be overrun.

A scan helps you avoid these time, labor, and material costs. You'll find it easier to meet your original budget.

To learn more, talk to your building contractor about GPR concrete scanning.

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