Our Services
We offer Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scanning services for our clients' varied scanning, data collection, and damage prevention needs. Typical service types are listed below, but we can easily and happily tailor our services to custom client requirements.
Try us out! Call us today for a free quote.
Subsurface Target
and Void Detection
We use the latest in GPR scanning equipment to identify all types of subsurface elements and voids. Get an accurate reading of what's below, whether it be rebar, conduits, cables, pipes, and anything else just out of sight.
Subsurface Data
Collection and Reporting
We can perform a full inventory of concrete slabs and structural members to confirm the appropriate concrete depths and rebar spacing (sometimes required by AHJs after concrete has been poured). All findings are summarized in an easy-to-read report.
Localized
3D Mapping
When absolute precision is key, we offer subsurface 3D mapping services. We are equipped to provide our clients with detailed, three dimensional imaging of subsurface systems so they may make the most informed decisions.
About Us
Vantage Concrete Scanning specializes in Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) imaging and mapping services for concrete slabs, concrete walls, and masonry walls within new and existing buildings. We offer our services using the latest in GPR equipment on the market, and we are fully insured to do the work. Our scanning is performed using the most current and updated version of the GSSI StructureScan Mini XT, which permits subsurface scanning up to a depth of 24 inches (60 cm). Our data is interpreted and mapped in the field by our experienced technologists. For our clients that require additional peace-of-mind, or client-report deliverables, we also offer 3D scanning and interpretation using the proprietary GSSI RADAN 7 and Autodesk AutoCAD software.
Vantage Concrete Scanning is owned and operated by two construction technologists with a collective experience of more than 40years in building science and technology. Our personnel has years of experience working in everything from state-of-the-art contemporary facilities to buildings constructed prior to 1900. We take pride in our ability to work in all aspects of the built world that our equipment permits. Additionally, we strive to be the best in our field and to provide imaging and mapping services that are simple to identify in the field by all workers in order to facilitate total damage prevention of all subsurface elements in the mapped area.
Meet the Team
Thomas Laurin
Co-founder & GPR Technologist
Thomas has worked in the construction industry for over 20 years since finishing his studies at Red River College. He has a proven track record for competency in building sciences, construction concepts, and engineering technology. Throughout his career, Thomas has fulfilled various technologist roles such as CAD technician, building surveyor, and passive fire protection inspector. Thomas' diverse experience with construction inspections and testing on various project types have made him an effective communicator, and has helped him facilitate quick and efficient project turnarounds where tight deadlines were a critical factor.
Thomas is married and a father of two. In his spare time he enjoys playing competitive soccer with his long-standing team, and spending time with his family at Grand Beach.
Michael Sutton, C.E.T.
Co-founder & GPR Technologist
Michael has been engaged in construction technology and software since enrolling in drafting and design elective courses at Sisler High School over 20 years ago. After completion of his studies in the Civil Engineering Technology program at Red River College, Michael attained the professional designation of Certified Engineering Technologist (C.E.T.) via Certified Technicians & Technologists Association of Manitoba (CTTAM). During his career as a passive fire protection inspector and real property management specialist, Michael has fine-tuned his skills for detailed tasks and has streamlined various processes to improve client deliverables.
Michael is married and a father of one. He enjoys road trips, camping, and downhill skiing, as well as hobbyist tinkering with computers, electronics, wristwatches, and small engine equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GPR?
GPR is an acronym that stands for Ground Penetrating Radar. GPR is a non-destructive method of scanning through various material surfaces using radar pulses to "see" what is hidden below. These pulses consist of electromagnetic waves in the VHF and UHF radio wave spectrum (similar to those received by an analog television antenna). These radio waves are transmitted through surface materials, and the scanning equipment detects reflected signals from subsurface structures. These reflected signals are read and interpreted by the equipment operator to provide a map of all pipes, conduits, cables, and voids that are not visible from the surface. Since its practical implementation within the construction industry in the 1970s, GPR has been proven many times over as the ultimate method of subsurface detection and damage prevention.
Who requires GPR and why?
GPR is useful to many different end users in the construction industry. Owners, general contractors, construction managers, mechanical contractors, sprinkler contractors, electrical contractors, facility managers, maintenance personnel, architects, and engineers, to name a few, may require GPR scanning in certain circumstances. GPR can be useful in new construction where contract changes require additional coring, drilling, or destructive work on new concrete or masonry assemblies. GPR is also frequently used in building renovations, retrofits, and fit out work where as-built information is lacking or in instances where subsurface elements must be identified prior to invasive or destructive work taking place.
What are the limitations of GPR?
One of GPR's biggest limitations is related to the conductivity of the material being scanned. For example, a metallic surface cannot be scanned as all transmitted radar waves are quickly diffused in the surface of the metal. In a more subtle way, this principle also applies with wet concrete. Recently poured concrete contains higher moisture content that can affect GPR readings. This does not always mean moist concrete is unscannable, but it can reduce the effective depth of the GPR equipment. In these cases, we recommend scanning once the concrete has had a chance to cure by a minimum of 28 days.
Are there any safety concerns with GPR?
GPR has no inherent safety risks, as it is completely independent from X-ray scanning technology. All GPR scanning radio waves are emitted within the microwave spectrum, which falls in the wavelength range of 600 through 2700 megahertz. In other words, it is 100% safe for all personnel on and around the job site.
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (After Hours by Appointment)
Saturday: Available by Appointment
Sunday: Available by Appointment
Call us today at 431-334-9800 or click the button below to reserve a time that's convenient for you.
Get a Quote
We provide free quotations for all of our services. Please let us know the details and we will be happy to tailor our services to your needs.