Something as simple as a leaking pipe can lead to a sinkhole, but why are sinkholes such a big deal?
Natural sinkholes happen when acidic rainwater seeps down through surface soil and sediment, which eventually reaches a soluble bedrock like sandstone, gypsum, salt, chalk, or a carbonate rock like limestone. This process can last hundreds, even thousands, of years. Eventually, the water dissolves small parts of the rock, which creates giant cavities beneath. At Concrete Visions, we specialize in sinkhole and void detection. Why are sinkholes such a big deal though?
Damage Caused By Sinkholes
Big enough voids can cause huge damage to property and even human lives. There have been numerous deaths from these kinds of unfortunate natural disasters, as well as huge losses in property. The problem is that sometimes a sinkhole can be unexpected and seemingly appear out of nowhere. This is why precautions must be taken. But how are you supposed to know if a sinkhole might pop up under you?
Where Do They Develop?
Typically, a sinkhole or void will develop anywhere that the subsurface materials are at risk of shifting and deflating. Areas with karst limestone are particularly likely to be problem spots, but anywhere with soft soil or disturbed subsurface materials is a risky area. Common causes of sinkhole development include mining activity or leaking sewage or water pipes. If you think you live in an area that may be at risk of developing a sinkhole, geophysical surveying can help identify potential problems.
Using GPR to Find Sinkholes and Voids
Using ground-penetrating radar like Concrete Visions offers, you can get high-quality images of both surface and subsurface materials. The scans offer a reliable diagnosis of potential soil problems all at a cost-effective rate. GPR is incredibly powerful, yet not at all dangerous, and is one of the best ways to detect sinkholes.
Sinkhole Detection With Concrete Visions
Concrete Visions has over 12 years of experience and expertise in concrete scanning and we know how to detect any problems lurking beneath the surface. We use ground penetrating radar accurately and expertly and are familiar with many other methods that can be used when appropriate like concrete x-ray and electromagnetic conductivity. We are also very familiar with the latest construction safety techniques and train all of our workers to do their work quickly, accurately, and safely. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, give us a call at (410) 766-2210 or visit us online. For more articles and tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.