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Scanning Before Concrete Cutting - Is It Necessary?



Concrete cutting is commonplace when you work in trades undertaking renovations and construction. To ensure you don't hit anything or significantly damage the space you're working in, taking precautions by engaging in concrete scanning in Brisbane will save you money, time damage and injury.


In this article, we explore what concrete scanning is and why it is one of the best aspects when working with this medium.


What is Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Scanning?

GPR, also known as concrete scanning, involves using technology that's non-destructive. These can take the form of an ultrasonic instrument or ferro scan, and their design penetrates the ground to detect any objects embedded in the concrete or structural irregularities.


The results are elucidated by professionals and engineers highly-skilled in their field, who notify relevant persons of the conditions they will be cutting. Most often, these results are presented as 3D images at the time of the scan, which means the job can continue at your desired pace.


Concrete scanning isn't limited to use on the ground but also scans buildings, cap parks, columns, roads and more. This is why it is important to understand what GPR scanning is and what it reveals.


1. Detection of Possible Impediments

The most significant advantage of the scanning process is determining whether the concrete has an obstruction that will impair any progress for removal, cutting or drilling. You may detect findings such as:

  • Metallic or plastic electrical conduits: If these were accidentally severed, you are left with a costly issue but, more importantly, a safety hazard. Hitting these with a saw or drill could cause loss of power and services.

  • Cables - post-tension & rebar: Serious injuries and flying debris are likely if you hit these cables. Your costs will skyrocket, and your project will be halted because this also causes issues with building structural damage.

  • Embedded objects: This could be anything from glass bottles to bits of debris.

  • Water & radiant heat lines: It's likely these lines will be found within a concrete structure, which can cause obstructed access to buildings should your saw or drill hit these.

  • Reinforced steel: Scanning can inform you of how much space and depth you have.

If undetected, these can cause costly repairs, structural damage and safety issues which in turn puts your team at risk and causes delays on the job.


2. Concrete Inspections

One of the uses of concrete scanning is investigating concrete anomalies and structures. Aside from being able to measure concrete thickness, scanning also:

  • Estimates elevation

  • Measure spacing

  • Identify air pockets & voids

  • Uncover corrosion.

Identification of these ensures that preparations are made before the first cut, which prevents structural damage.


This type of scanning can also be used to identify load-bearing abilities. With this information, engineers and trades know where it's safe to saw or drill.


3. Work Safe With Concrete Scanning

Employees' health and safety are paramount in any business or organisation. Within trades and engineering, safety by concrete scanning before performing work can identify any obstacles that are likely to cause injury or damage. By undergoing this task, you are enriching a safer workplace along with the successful completion of your construction project.


Commercial & Residential Concrete Scanning

For concrete scanning to help make your workplace a safer environment, we welcome you to discover how we can help you with our quality services and specialised equipment at Precise Cut & Core.

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