Renovation projects often come with surprises hidden beneath the surface. Behind every slab or wall lies a network of rebar, post-tension cables, electrical conduit, and other critical components that are not visible to the eye. Cutting or drilling without knowing what is inside can lead to serious damage or even structural failure. This is why Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scanning has become one of the most important tools in modern construction and renovation.
At Kansas City Coring & Cutting, we use GPR to detect what lies within concrete before any work begins. This technology allows us to plan accurately, prevent costly mistakes, and protect both the structure and the people working on it.
What GPR Scanning Does
GPR uses high-frequency radio waves to scan through concrete and identify differences in material density. When the signal encounters objects like steel, conduit, or voids, it reflects back to a receiver. The data is then converted into a visual map that shows what is inside the slab or wall.
Our technicians interpret this data to locate rebar grids, post-tension cables, embedded utilities, and other structural elements. The scan provides accurate information on depth, spacing, and layout, which guides our cutting and coring plans.
Preventing Structural Damage and Safety Hazards
Without scanning, even a small cut in the wrong place can have serious consequences. Severing a post-tension cable can release stored tension instantly, creating a dangerous and costly situation. Cutting through rebar can weaken load-bearing capacity, and hitting live conduit can cause electrical hazards.
By scanning first, we eliminate guesswork and reduce the risk of accidents. GPR also allows engineers to assess the condition of older structures, identifying voids, cracks, or corrosion that may need reinforcement before work continues.
A Smarter and Safer Approach to Renovation
GPR scanning saves time, money, and most importantly, lives. It provides the information needed to plan confidently and execute with precision.
At Kansas City Coring & Cutting, we treat scanning as a standard step in our workflow, not an optional service. It is one of the many ways we ensure every project is completed safely, efficiently, and with total structural integrity.
