FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes, ground penetrating radar can be used to determine the location of unmarked graves for site planning purposes. We are able to locate most grave sites, even those that have experienced material decomposition.

GPR is used to identify the location of subsurface materials. GPRS uses this radar for utility locating and concrete scanning applications. Varying antenna strengths are used for different applications, depending on the type of material being scanned and how deep objects are buried.

We regularly use GPR equipment to scan for the location of rebar in concrete columns and walls. GPR can also examine the underside of a floor to mark out the reinforcing steel and any embedded conduits.

GPR is extremely effective at locating subsurface utilities and other materials, however it does have certain limitations. Ground and soil conditions, weather, and the type of material being located are just a few of the potential limiting factors. In the event that conditions are not suitable for GPR scanning, an alternative recommendation can be made.

GPR is exceptionally accurate! While accuracy depends on various external factors such as ground and soil conditions, the GPRS standard ensures that we can obtain the best results possible in each situation. Through experience, we've found that when using a concrete antenna for scanning, the accuracy is typically +/- ¼" to the center of the object and +/- ½" to the actual depth. When locating an object using a utility locating antenna for scanning, the accuracy is +/- 6" to the center and +/- 10% to the actual depth.

The results of the concrete antenna are generally higher resolution and therefore considered to produce better quality results. However, the concrete antenna cannot penetrate the ground as deeply as the utility locating antenna. It is critical to understand the benefits and limitations of both when performing scanning work.

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a safe, non-invasive tool used to identify subsurface objects. GPR does not emit any harmful radiation or other byproducts. The scanning process does not create any noise, and the area can remain undisturbed during the scan. Contact us with any questions regarding the safety of GPR usage. We are happy to provide you with additional documentation.

GPRS uses a variety of ground penetrating radar and scanning tools according to a project's needs. Our two most used pieces of equipment are the concrete scanning antenna and the utility locating antenna. Read more about the different types of equipment we use here.

No. GPR equipment can identify the area where a void is occurring and the boundaries of that void. It cannot measure the void’s depth.

GPR is highly effective at locating subsurface utilities and other materials. However, it does have certain limitations. Performing locating services on suboptimal ground and soil conditions, inclement weather, and the material of the object being located are just a few potential limiting factors. We can provide alternative recommendations if conditions are unsuitable for GPR scanning.

We can use ground penetrating radar equipment on concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls and structures. GPR can also determine the presence or absence of grout, bond beams, vertical rebar, horizontal rebar, and joint reinforcing within the CMU structure.

This answer depends on the type of application. The antenna can typically penetrate 18”-24” into the ground for concrete scanning. For private utility locating needs on grass, asphalt, or concrete, the antenna can generally penetrate up to 8' but this can vary greatly depending on site conditions.

In certain situations, a larger antenna can be used for greater penetration. Please contact your local GPRS representative for more information on selecting the right GPR service for your project.

GPR is used to identify the location of subsurface materials. GPRS uses this technology for utility locating and precision concrete scanning applications. We utilize varying antenna strengths for different applications, depending on the scanned material and how deep objects are buried.

Ground penetrating radar is a detection method that uses radio waves to identify buried or hidden objects within a structure or beneath the surface. This non-destructive method uses antennas of varying strengths to transmit a signal into a surface. As the signal encounters different components within that surface, it is bounced back to a receiver at the surface. This action helps determine the location of buried utilities and other subsurface features.

Contact GPRS by phone or through our website, and a local GPRS representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Our representatives and local Project Managers are skilled in assessing local conditions and can help you figure out how GPR services can meet your needs.