Concrete Scanning
Concrete Scanning Services in British Columbia
Protect What’s Beneath the Surface – Non-Destructive Concrete Imaging You Can Trust
Concrete scanning is a non-destructive investigation method that reveals what lies inside a slab, wall, or structural element before cutting, drilling, or anchoring. Using high-frequency Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and expert interpretation, Terraprobe pinpoints rebar, post-tension cables, conduits (metallic and non-metallic), voids, and other anomalies. Our goal: keep your crews safe, prevent damage, and provide the documentation engineers trust.Whether you’re a general contractor preparing for structural modifications, a coring company needing to locate post-tension cables, or an engineer verifying as-built conditions, our concrete scanning service ensures you avoid costly surprises hidden inside concrete.
Why Concrete Scanning Matters
Embedded within every concrete structure are elements you must avoid: electrical conduits, post-tension tendons, plumbing, and reinforcement. Hitting one of these can compromise structural integrity, trigger safety hazards, or cost thousands in rework. In B.C., adhering to WorkSafeBC’s hazard control obligations means you must identify subsurface risks before any coring or cutting. That makes concrete scanning a critical step—not a nice-to-have.
Our Scanning Capabilities: What We Detect
Using industry-grade GPR systems and practiced signal analysis, Terraprobe can locate:
Rebar layout, spacing, and cover depth
Post-tension tendons (live or dead)
Embedded conduits (metallic and non-metallic)
Voids, honeycombing, and delamination zones
Embedded pipes, radiant systems, and sleeves
Slab thickness and reinforcement depth
Structural anomalies or hidden inclusions
Our skilled technicians interpret much of the data in real time, marking core-safe zones immediately. For complex anomalies, we supplement with post-processing for clarity.
CALL FOR FASTER SERVICE 604-553-4778
Technology & Methodology
GPR as the Primary Tool: We use high-frequency antennas suited for concrete imaging (often 1600–2600 MHz) to balance resolution and penetration. In many slabs, we achieve clear imaging up to 12 inches or more, depending on reinforcement, moisture, and slab composition.
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Tool Selection Based on Conditions: In highly congested or thick slabs, we may alternate frequencies or combine GPR with other detection aids (e.g., cover meters) to resolve ambiguities.
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Interpretation & Marking: Beyond raw scans, accurate interpretation is key. Our crew distinguishes overlapping reflections, assigns object types (rebar vs. conduit vs. cable), and flags zones of uncertainty. Markings use a standardized code system and are corroborated where possible with drawings.
What Makes Terraprobe Different?
Deep Technical Expertise
We bring decades of GPR experience. Interpreting radargrams in PT slabs or high-rebar densities is as much art as science—and our team consistently delivers clarity in complex conditions.
Quality Equipment & Calibration
We maintain a fleet of radar units tailored for concrete work. We also calibrate for specific slab materials, moisture, and reinforcement, selecting antenna frequencies accordingly.
Site-Specific Planning
Before any scan, we review drawings, assess concrete mix, gauge moisture conditions, and evaluate site constraints (overhead work, access, vibration). That upfront analysis helps reduce surprises during scanning.
Flexible Deliverables
We know not every project needs full reports. We offer:
• Surface markings for trades
• Annotated field sketches
• CAD-compatible output for engineers
• Photographic overlays
• On-site debriefs to review findings and limitations
Responsive Support & Mobilization
Many jobs require rapid turnaround or off-hour scanning (e.g. after-hours in commercial towers). Terraprobe offers flexible scheduling and emergency response for last-minute scanning needs.
KNOW WHAT'S HIDDEN. AVOID WHAT'S COSTLY.
What to Expect When You Work With Us
- Pre-Scan Consultation - We gather project details, review structural drawings, and assess site conditions (e.g. slab pours, moisture, rebar density)
- On-Site Scanning - A technician performs the scan, interprets live data, and marks the slab for safe coring or drilling.
Deliverables & Reporting -Depending on scope, we deliver same-day markings, and field sketches or full reports (often within 24–48 hours).
Follow-Up & Support -If design changes require rescans or clarifications, our team remains on call to assist.
"Very experienced team. Super reliable, thorough, diligent."
-Typhon Concrete Cutting and Coring
"I have used Terraprobe on my jobs for the last 4 years and they have been nothing but professional. Always show up when scheduled and their work and reporting there after is A1."
-Paidraig Byrne, Bird Construction
Risk Mitigation & Liability
Concrete scanning is your frontline defense against major consequences. Striking PT cables or live conduits can lead to:
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Structural compromise
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Injury or safety incidents
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Project delays and cost overruns
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Rework, repair bills, and insurance claims
Terraprobe mitigates these risks by delivering accurate results, clearly documenting findings, and carrying appropriate professional liability coverage (Errors & Omissions plus general liability). We also flag uncertainty zones where further investigation or daylighting is needed.
Deliverables That Meet Your Project Needs
Every job is different. Some clients need quick on-site markings; others require full documentation for regulatory approval or engineering verification. We offer:
Field markings using client Acceptable Medium for real-time guidance
Comprehensive reports with detailed scan findings, object locations, and annotated slab diagrams
AutoCAD-compatible outputs for integration into structural drawings
Photographic documentation with location overlays
Post-scan consultation to review risks and recommendations
Avoiding Risk: Why Concrete Scanning Saves Money and Lives
A single accidental strike can derail your project. Concrete scanning mitigates:
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Structural damage from hitting post-tension cables
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Electrical hazards from striking live conduits
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Utility outages and service disruption
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Code violations and project delays
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Costly repairs and insurance claims
We help you avoid these risks proactively—often saving tens of thousands in rework and liability.
Aligned With Safety and Compliance Standards in BC
As part of our commitment to safety, Terraprobe follows protocols in line with established safety protocols and safety requirements of our clients, ensuring that all concrete penetrations are properly scanned and approved prior to execution.
Even though scanning is not yet universally regulated, we believe in meeting and exceeding evolving standards. Our technicians follow strict safety protocols, conduct pre-scan hazard assessments, and provide documentation that can be reviewed by engineers, safety officers, or inspectors.
With building codes shifting toward carbon accountability and seismic resilience, our scanning supports proactive compliance and informed decision-making.
What to Expect When You Work With Us
Pre-Scan Consultation:
We gather project details, review drawings (if available), and assess any site access or environmental factors.
On-Site Scanning:
Our technician performs a full scan with real-time interpretation.
Reporting & Results:
Field markings and/or digital reporting provided on the same day or within 24 hours, depending on scope.
Follow-Up Support:
Need changes or clarification? Our team is on call to assist.
Pricing & Value
Our pricing reflects the complexity, scale, and deliverable level of each job—not generic “one-size-fits-all” fees. Factors influencing cost include scan area, slab complexity, access difficulty, and reporting requirements. While scanning is a modest budget item, its value in avoiding downtime, structural damage, and liability is significant. Reach out for a tailored quote aligned with your project's needs.
Who We Serve
We’ve supported hundreds of clients across British Columbia and Western Canada, including:
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General contractors
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Concrete cutting/coring companies
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Engineering firms
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Government infrastructure projects
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Commercial developers
Terraprobe is trusted by leading companies such as Bird Construction, Typhon Concrete Cutting, and regional engineering firms for our professionalism, rapid response, and accuracy. Our team’s integrity and technical skills have earned repeat business and long-standing industry relationships.
We understand that in this industry, reliability matters. When we say we’ll be there, we show up. When we scan, you can trust the results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep can you scan into concrete?
In most cases we can scan at least 12 inches with GPR, however in optimal conditions we may be able to scan deeper. We can detect rebar, cables, and conduits within that depth range with high accuracy.
Can you scan newly poured concrete?
Yes, though moisture levels will impact results. Our technicians adjust scan settings and techniques to compensate where possible. For best results we suggest 30 day minimum curing.
What’s the difference between GPR and X-ray scanning?
GPR is safer and faster, requiring access to only one side of a surface. X-ray offers more detail in some cases but requires access to both sides and involves radiation protocols.
How quickly can I get results?
For most standard jobs, results and markings are provided same-day. Full reports can generally be delivered within 24–48 hours.
Looking for pricing? Contact us for a quote on your next project
Download a sample report
Performance Warranty
GPR concrete scanning results are interpretive in nature which means that the skill and experience of the technician plays a large roll in producing accurate results.
⟶ Flexible Pricing Options
⟶ Safescan Warranty
⟶ Local Marking & Reports Available
⟶ Large Equipment Inventory