One of our main services at Enhanced Scanning is GPR concrete scanning for rebar verification. Rebar verification is a process that involves finding the steel reinforcement rods that run through many concrete slabs. At Enhanced Scanning, we typically use ground penetrating radar (GPR), which is a non-destructive method of surveying what is below the surface of the concrete. Using this technology, we are able to accurately locate rebar—including how for below the surface it is buried—without disturbing the concrete in any way. GPR is fast, affordable, and effective.
Here are three reasons we complete GPR scanning for rebar verification for our customers:
Avoid Equipment Damage, Injury, and Project Delays with Rebar Verification
Drill bits and blades that are made to go through concrete are not typically designed to cut through metal as well. If you drill or cut into concrete and hit rebar, it could damage the bit or blade, and possibly render your equipment useless. If you don’t have replacement equipment on hand, the project immediately comes to a standstill until you can get it. In the worst-case scenario, cutting into rebar could cause injury to the person doing the drilling or cutting.
In addition, once you hit rebar during drilling or cutting, you may then be forced to drill or cut elsewhere. This will cause additional project delays as you have to formulate a new plan. The new plan could include bringing in someone to conduct the GPR scanning to locate the exact locations of all the rebar—a step that you probably should have taken in the first place.
Maintain the Integrity of the Concrete
Accidentally cutting into rebar could compromise the integrity of the concrete slab. Rebar is put in place to help give concrete stability, and when you damage it, it can cause stress to the concrete and make a structure unstable. Fixing the instability can require very expensive repairs.
By locating rebar ahead of time using GPR scanning, you can avoid a dangerous and potentially costly situation!
To Find Out What You’re Dealing With Prior to Remodeling
Buildings and homes change hands all the time, and they don’t always come with a complete or accurate set of records. When you go to make changes, it’s important to know exactly what you’re dealing with. We had a situation a while back where we were called out to a home in Montana to conduct rebar verification. After thoroughly scanning their back patio, we had to deliver the bad news to the homeowners that there was no rebar in the concrete footing that supported the patio’s 25-foot-high roof!
While this wasn’t the news the homeowners were hoping for, at least they then had the information they needed to proceed with any home renovation projects. Their contractor was wise to call us out for rebar verification prior to the start of the remodel!
These aren’t the only reasons for completing rebar verification using GPR scanning but are three of the main ones. (We’ve also been called out when a contractor fails to have the rebar inspected prior to pouring the concrete.) No matter what your reason is for needing your concrete scanned, Enhanced Scanning can help! Contact us today to schedule service.