Denver Metro & Front Range Dispatch

FAQ

Concrete scanning questions

What equipment does Recon GPR use for concrete inspection?

We deploy state-of-the-art, high-resolution Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) systems designed specifically for concrete applications. Our equipment includes compact handheld units for tight spots, walls, and elevated decks, alongside specialized deep-penetration antennas for subsurface shallow utility mapping.

How deep can your ground penetrating radar scan?

Under standard concrete conditions, our high-frequency radar systems deliver clear imaging for depths up to 24 inches or more. For heavy structural foundations, thick slabs, or sub-grade void detection beneath slab-on-grade floors, we deploy specialized deep-penetration equipment.

Can GPR scan concrete slab-on-grade floors?

Yes. Because GPR only requires access to one side of a slab, it is ideal for slab-on-grade applications where the underside is inaccessible. GPR can scan through the slab and into the sub-base soil to detect buried conduits, grade beams, footings, and sub-slab voids.

Can GPR distinguish between rebar, post-tension cables, and conduit?

Yes. By analyzing target depth, spacing, signal characteristics, and drape patterns, an experienced technician can differentiate between uniform rebar grids, draping post-tension tendons, and isolated metallic or non-metallic (PVC) conduits.

What are the technical limitations of GPR concrete scanning?

While GPR is the industry standard for subsurface inspection, signal depth and clarity can be influenced by heavily congested or overlapping rebar mats, wet concrete, metal decking, or non-metallic conduits directly adjacent to steel. In complex areas, our technicians work closely with your on-site team to explain the data and identify safe alternative locations for cutting or drilling.

How should our jobsite be prepared before the GPR technician arrives?

To ensure clean readings and efficient scanning, clear standing water, mud, snow, and heavy equipment from the target scan area. Marking planned cut, core, or anchor points prior to our arrival allows the technician to focus directly on your target layout.

How does GPR concrete scanning compare to concrete X-raying?

Unlike X-raying, GPR requires single-surface access (making it suitable for slab-on-grade floors), produces zero ionizing radiation (allowing adjacent trades to keep working), and provides immediate real-time results on site without site shutdowns or film processing delays.

What deliverables do I receive after the scan is complete?

Our technician marks target locations, depths, and safe cut/core windows directly onto the concrete surface using tape, paint, or layout markers. Upon request, we also generate formal digital PDF reports complete with scan slice data, photos, and structural notes for engineering submittals delivered within 24 hours. For large-scale projects, we can also transfer marked layout data onto digital CAD/PDF floor plans.

GPR vs X-ray vs cutting blind

Why GPR is the default for concrete scanning

Superintendents have three choices before they core a slab: scan with GPR, shoot X-ray, or drill and hope. Here is how they compare on a working Colorado jobsite.

GPR scanning

  • No ionizing radiation
  • One-side access only
  • Results marked on the slab in real time

X-ray imaging

  • Very detailed images
  • Requires clearing the area for radiation safety
  • Needs access to both sides
  • Capture and interpretation workflow varies

Cutting blind

  • Risk of PT cable strikes and structural damage
  • Live conduit and pipe hits
  • Costly repairs and schedule delays

Tell Us About Your Project

Need fast concrete scanning or subsurface shallow utility mapping? Contact our team today for prompt service across Denver, the Front Range, and the I-70 Mountain Corridor.

Call 720.262.2311Schedule a Scan