Ground penetrating radar, or GPR, is used in construction every day, though you may not know it. Also known as ground surveying, GPR is a non-invasive, geophysical mapping method that uses radar pulses to image under the ground. Keep reading to learn how GPR is used on a regular basis to move construction projects along. During GPR, a radar unit will emit and receive thousands of signals per second which are then transmitted to a monitor that we can see. The results are then saved and stored for future review. Many GPR methods create visual slices of an image to generate a three-dimensional map with depth, soil type, and object locations as major features.
Although the data that is generated through GPR can be hard to interpret at first, trained professionals can do it in a snap. Different types of soil, water levels, and other environmental factors can affect the readings and make them more or less difficult to interpret. Despite these limitations, GPR is still a vital piece of technology that is used in construction work worldwide.
What Can GPR Do?
Through the use of GPR, we are able to map the subsurface of the construction site. This way, we can detect underground obstructions such as pipes, utilities, leaks, and line breaks in a way that is non-intrusive. The results of our mapping with GPR makes a huge impact on the scope and direction of our construction projects. If blueprints and records happen to be unavailable or incomplete, GPR fills in the blanks by providing us with a complete picture of the job site, both above and below the ground. GPR also helps us to avoid potentially perilous situations that can arise from hitting a major utility such as a water main or a power line.
In addition to making worksites safer and more efficient, GPR also helps alleviate heavy costs of some jobs. Using GPR means less digging and guesswork when it comes to anything that needs to be done underground. This saves everyone time and money. GPR plots and maps are often integrated into a project’s construction documents so that clients can have a comprehensive map of the jobsite, both above and below the ground. GPR adds value for our clients, regardless of the type of project they are working on.
GPR Services from Concrete Visions
If you think that GPR services would be a great addition to your next construction project, Concrete Visions is here to help. We have over 12 years of experience in concrete scanning, so we know how to detect any problems below the earth. We use GPR every day and are comfortable and familiar with other methods to streamline your jobsite to make your work more cost-effective and efficient. If you have questions or would like to learn more about the services that we offer, give us a call at 410-766-2210 or visit us online. For tips, tricks, and to see what we are up to, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.