Before you drill, cut, or core through a slab of concrete pause. Because what’s inside that slab could derail your entire project.
Concrete scanning is the process of using non-invasive technology, most commonly Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), to detect hidden objects like rebar, conduits, voids, or post-tension cables. Whether you’re working on a new commercial project in Toronto or restoring a heritage property in Ottawa, scanning is a safety-first step that saves time, money, and headaches.
At Titan Scanning, we provide fast, accurate concrete scanning services across the GTA and Ottawa using advanced GPR equipment and experienced technicians.
What is the Purpose of Concrete Scanning?
The purpose of concrete scanning is simple: to prevent surprises.
Before any cutting, coring, or drilling takes place, it’s essential to know what’s beneath the surface. GPR scanning allows you to locate:
- Rebar
- Post-tension cables
- Electrical conduits
- Plumbing lines
- Voids or honeycombing
- Structural inconsistencies
Skipping this step can result in serious damage to structural elements or worse, injury to workers. In tightly regulated construction zones like Toronto’s financial district or Ottawa’s downtown core, even a minor error can delay projects and inflate costs.
That’s why Titan Scanning’s concrete scanning service is trusted by builders, engineers, and facility managers alike.
What is GPR in Concrete?
GPR, or Ground Penetrating Radar, is the most widely used method for scanning concrete. It works by sending high-frequency radio waves into the surface and measuring the signal reflections that bounce back from embedded objects.
If you’re curious about how GPR works in general, here’s Wikipedia’s page on Ground-penetrating radar for more detail.
Why GPR?
- Non-invasive: No drilling or breaking needed.
- Real-time results: Immediate feedback on-site.
- Versatile: Works on floors, walls, and ceilings.
At Titan Scanning, we use high-resolution GPR systems designed specifically for concrete. Whether you’re scanning a suspended slab in a Toronto high-rise or an underground parking garage in Ottawa, we can provide clear, accurate imaging.
How Accurate is Concrete Scanning?
In most typical use cases, GPR scanning can locate embedded objects with accuracy within ±1 cm. However, this can vary depending on:
- The thickness of the concrete slab
- The moisture content in the slab
- The density of reinforcing material (e.g., mesh or rebar)
- The condition of the concrete surface
While GPR isn’t infallible, its precision increases dramatically when operated by trained professionals. At Titan Scanning, our technicians bring years of experience working on complex concrete structures across Ontario. Their ability to interpret overlapping signals and detect nuances is what sets our service apart.
Who Needs Concrete Scanning?
You might be surprised how often concrete scanning comes into play.
Here are just a few examples of professionals who rely on it:
- Contractors cutting into slabs or walls
- Electricians and plumbers installing new systems
- Structural engineers performing assessments
- Property managers upgrading old infrastructure
- Homeowners remodeling basements or driveways
Concrete doesn’t come with a “contents list,” especially in older buildings. Scanning helps ensure peace of mind before anyone breaks ground.
Benefits of Concrete Scanning in Ottawa & GTA
Here’s what you gain when you scan before you cut:
- Prevent costly mistakes — Avoid hitting rebar, conduits, or post-tension cables
- Stay compliant — Meet safety codes and reduce liability
- Speed up your timeline — Real-time results help you stay on schedule
- Avoid shutdowns — One wrong cut can delay an entire construction zone
Learn more about our services across Ontario
We’ve scanned residential homes in Kanata, parking garages in Scarborough, schools in Mississauga, and medical buildings in Gatineau. Every slab is different, but our process is consistent: fast, safe, and professional.
Why Choose Titan Scanning?
There are other scanning companies—but few with the regional reach and technical skill of Titan Scanning.
We offer:
- Quick turnarounds – Emergency same-day service available
- Local expertise – Serving both Ottawa and the Greater Toronto Area
- Certified technicians – Fully trained in GPR interpretation
- Professional reporting – Clear scan results you can trust
Whether you need one quick scan or a full site survey, we’ll work with your schedule and budget to keep your project on track.
Ready to scan your slab?
Contact Titan Scanning today and make sure your next cut is the right one.