Blog | Util Locate

What is Concrete Scanning and What Can It Find?

Before a renovation or construction project begins, concrete scanning is essential. This is the process of evaluating concrete slabs or columns before core drilling. Typically, technology like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is used to spot buried and embedded objects. However, this method is ideal because it’s completely safe and nondestructive.

If you think that you need surface and concrete scanning solutions, it’s best to learn about the ins and outs of the process first. Let’s start with what exactly happens during a typical inspection of a concrete slab.

What Happens During Concrete Scanning?

During a concrete scan, a professional will deliver high-frequency electromagnetic waves using GPR technology through your concrete floor or wall.

Another specialist will then come in to interpret the data provided by the scanner. From there, they’ll be able to show you what’s hidden underneath your concrete and where it is exactly.

Types of Concrete Structures that Need to be Scanned

Any concrete surface can and should be scanned before any cutting or drilling is done. Some samples of structures that need to be scanned are provided below.

Slab on grade
Roadways
Bridges
Beams
Decks
Pylons
Walls
Balconies
Encasements
Tunnels
Sidewalks
Columns
Floors
Ceilings

Common Objects Found During Concrete Scanning

A proper concrete scan can uncover a large variety of objects in your chosen area. Below are just a few examples:

Metal rebars and other reinforcing steel members
Post-tension cables
Electrical conduits
Piping
Plastic tubing
Water lines

The Importance of Concrete Inspection

Before you do any work on your concrete like drilling, cutting, or repairing, you must first determine where utilities and reinforcements are located. This will save you time since you won’t have to spend hours looking for a secure area where you can start working on.

Investing in concrete scanning can also guarantee that you’ll be able to cut and drill safely without harming your tools or the materials that are hidden underneath the concrete.

Additionally, the process can help ensure and maintain the structural integrity of a structure’s foundation.

Check out even more benefits of concrete scanning services:

Reduces the possibility of damage to utilities, rebar, post-tension cables, pipes, and conduits
Lowers the risk of personal injury
Prevents costly mid-project repairs
Simplifies drilling, cutting, and coring

How Much Does Concrete Scanning Cost?

Important factors to consider when determining the price of a concrete scan are the location, area size, and the complexity of embedded materials. That said, the cost varies widely from case to case.

Don’t let this discourage you though. Just think of the construction delays, additional costs, and other possible headaches that can be put to rest with a carefully planned and scheduled concrete scan.

Experience Reliable Surface and Concrete Scanning Solutions Today!

Our skilled professionals are prepared to provide you with reliable surface and concrete scanning solutions services. With over 13 years of industry experience coupled with cutting-edge technology, we can give you the results that you want.

If you want to learn more about our concrete scanning services, you may fill out our online form or contact us at 888-885-6228 at Util-Locate right away!

3 Reasons to Call In Utility Potholing Services

Before an excavation or construction project begins, it is necessary to perform potholing for utilities. Professional utility potholing is a non-destructive method of determining the exact placement of all underground utility lines.

This utility location method is usually carried out by excavating carefully-planned areas around and above utility wires using a portable vacuum excavator that removes dirt and debris. During potholing, utility crews may come across gas, water, electrical, and sewage lines.

Small test holes may also be created in the earth for finding underground utilities like sewer pipes and utility lines. Potholing techniques eliminate risk by informing builders of the precise location of utilities before breaking ground.

Why Do You Need Professional Utility Potholing Services?

To give you a better understanding of potholing services and why you need them, we’ve broken down three benefits below.

1. It Helps Prevent Damages in Utility Lines

While digging, there’s a huge possibility that you may damage underground utilities. That will require a lot of labor and money to fix, not to mention the service outages that will inevitably occur in the digging process. You can be proactive and easily prevent service interruptions through utility potholing and utility maps.

2. It is Required in Many States

Many states prohibit the operation of heavy machinery within a certain distance of buried utility lines. Doing so exposes employees to a multitude of dangers. That is why most businesses must hire utility potholing services before the excavation starts.

3. It Ensures the Safety of Your Business Location

Understanding and maintaining your work site begins with potholing. Whether you’re laying new foundations or rerouting existing utilities and underground lines, you must know how things stand with your underground infrastructure.

Most Popular Potholing Technique

There are two popular potholing methods commonly used in the construction industry.

Hydrovac Excavation

Hydro excavation is the preferred method of many due to its accuracy compared to other methods. This potholing process moves the soil carefully using high-pressure water and a hose. The excavated material is then dumped into a debris tank.

Additionally, hydro vac excavation is advantageous because it uses water, which serves as a non-conductor. This becomes all the more critical when considering the safety of crew members while working with live electrical wires.

Vacuum Excavation

Another method of potholing is vacuum excavation, also known as air excavation. This technique uses a portable and pressurized device that utilizes air to extract soil via high-speed suction. Once the dirt is removed, it is either dried out or stored in a holding tank until it may be reused later.

An excavator’s fuel tank capacity can be anywhere from 100 to 1,200 gallons. Some potholing professionals believe this is the most secure means of excavating near utilities since they use low-pressure air.

Need Reliable Potholing Services For Your Construction Projects?

In every construction project, safety comes first. That’s why before you even think about digging or potholing utilities, you should reach out to Util-Locate first!

Through game-changing technology and years of proven expertise, you won’t be disappointed by our utility potholing services.

Ground Penetrating Radar 101: The Basics

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) equipment, also known as ground probing radar, is used in geological surveying like utility mapping.

What is a GPR?

The GPR technology is a very important set of equipment for those who are working in non-invasive surveying, especially during utility mapping. A GPR system allows underground utilities to be found as well as other subsurface objects like conduits, rebar, voids, and other characteristics of the ground.

How Does a Ground Penetrating Radar Technology Work?

Ground-penetrating radar technology uses an energy pulse to generate images underneath the job site. A computer receives the output and it undergoes data processing to perform its subsurface investigation. It takes the strength and time delay of the outgoing and returning signals and uses them to convert the data collected onto digital media.

It works because different material properties affect the electromagnetic pulse. Factors can affect these signals, which include:

Soil conditions
Buried objects
Freshwater
Concrete, dry sand
Wet sand
Sandy soils
Depth
Other structural elements
Subsurface features

This powerful tool is not limited by surface either. A GPR system can work on a variety of different surfaces like soil, ice, rock, fresh water, pavements, and concrete structures to name just a few.

It is versatile in its uses such as locating rebar, subsurface structures, or buried objects—even going as far as identifying the make and material of it.

Benefits of Utilizing Ground Penetrating Radar Equipment

GPR has a variety of uses and benefits. Its ability to identify metallic and non-metallic utilities and services, as well as work in unfavorable and favorable conditions makes it an indispensable tool in the field.

The collected data not only gives you the depth of the main components of a material, but also allows workers to identify polyethylene water and gas pipes, fiber-optic cables, and other elements that would otherwise be undetectable.

Data is gathered when combined with other collecting devices and systems like electromagnetic energy detection, accurate specific depths, the minor differences between two materials, small objects, large objects, subsurface mechanical properties, and a range of other information.

These systems can function in remote sensing work with accurate and reliable results. The resulting GPR data can ensure that no sensitive sites are disturbed by digging. The use of radar provides cost and time-saving benefits over older techniques such as x-rays.

These devices can use the data from these reflected signals to give early warning signs before any damage is made or before anyone is exposed to any dangers during construction. In the event of an already existing problem, this radar signal device can help diagnose the problem quicker and more accurately.

These machines have a place outside of construction and infrastructure as well. They can be used in geological studies and geophysics. They are used in environmental surveys and the study and assessments of earthquakes. They’re even used in the study of trenchless technology and directional drilling.

Find a Reliable Ground Probing Radar for Your Needs

If you’re looking for a GPR service you can trust, our team of experts is ready to take on the job and provide you with high-quality work. We use the latest equipment and cutting-edge technologies.

We produce cost-effective, fast, efficient, and accurate GPR survey solutions that stem from over 13 years of experience.

To learn more about our GPR services, contact us at 888-885-6228 at Util-Locate today!

3 Things to Know About Utility Mapping

There is always a risk of hitting utility pipelines or wires when digging into the ground during construction. This can be incredibly dangerous and costly should an accident like this happen. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional utility mapping service to get the job done.

Moreover, having an accurate plan when mapping out where to dig is essential. This is especially true in areas where utilities like gas lines and electrical power lines can be found.

This is where utility mapping and utility mapping services come in.

Understanding Utility Mapping

To put it simply, a utility map shows you data regarding the locations and identifications of pipes and cables beneath the ground. This involves sewers, electric utilities, telephone cables, gas lines, and water mains.

This process together with topographical surveys will create a detailed map of the configuration of anything below an area with great accuracy.

Keeping You Safe

Experienced utility mapping services can be crucial to any project, infrastructure, or construction site of any kind. Safety should always be the number one priority—and the greatest contributor to it is knowledge and information.

You’ll find reliable utility mapping services in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, and many other places, making sure that they provide and ensure a safe environment during construction.

What’s next after the completion of the projects is one of the ultimate goals of utility mapping. Always be sure to find, contact, discuss, or even meet with professional services and their team to keep people involved in any project out of harm.

Public health and safety should also be a top priority in any project. That’s why it’s important to not be cutting corners—to choose reliable utility mapping services that can help project managers understand all the information they need to know before digging any ground.

Hitting a gas pipeline is no laughing matter. Even if there are instances where workers and civilians manage to be unharmed, accurate knowledge and data could easily ensure their safety.

Avoiding What Could Go Wrong

Everyone at a worksite has the right to health and safety, and there are many things that could go wrong when the location of utilities underneath an infrastructure is overlooked.

There is a threat of electrocution, fire, or other dangerous hazards, and failing to have quality data about the project area can multiply these dangers exponentially.

Utility work-related accidents that happened in the past and continue to happen today—like flash burns, accidentally striking an electric cable, and expensive damages to private and public utilities. These are unnecessary and readily avoidable risks that could cost money and people.

Utility Mapping Service You Can Trust

For any type of infrastructure, be sure to do research beforehand and search for a reliable service that can provide you with life and cost-saving data. This data could make the entire process easier and safer for everyone involved.

For utility mapping services our team of skilled experts in the industry can ensure you a reliable, trustworthy, and professional job.

To learn more about our services, email us at info@util-locate.com on contact us at 888-885-6228 at Util-Locate today!

6 Safety Tips to Take Note of Before Concrete Coring

Concrete core drilling is the process of creating holes or removal of concrete cylinders from structures. Among the concrete coring applications are heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) procedures, drainage, maintenance hole, and structural testing. The procedure is used for surface & concrete scanning and specific concrete removal.

Concrete cutting is a common activity across the country, especially with workers on a construction site. Frequently, the people performing this work are skilled experts who specialize in working with concrete and masonry.

However, concrete core drilling is also performed by plumbers, electricians, and other construction and renovation professionals occasionally or regularly. Regardless of who is doing the job, successful operators follow certain tips and operating guidelines to prevent injuries.

Tips for Safe Concrete Core Drilling:

It is dangerous to work in construction while handling concrete. Aside from the dangers inherent in the typical work environment of manufacturing operations, such as machine handling and safety risks—concrete work presents numerous health and safety hazards, according to a report from Formplus.

Choose the Right Drill to Use

Choosing the right concrete core drill is one of the first things you need to think about. Drills can be classified into two major categories such as handheld or rig-mounted.

Rig-mounted drills are used for drilling holes larger than three inches, whereas handheld drills work best for drilling smaller holes.

Choose the Right Drill Bit

For concrete core drills, their bit is chosen according to the hardness of the material you are doing the job onto. Diamond-tipped bits are the most common drill bit for concrete core drilling.

Metal-bonded diamond drills will work efficiently for cutting ultra-hard alumina, sapphire, precious stones, and materials with high metal content. On the other hand, nickel-bonded electroplated diamond drills will work properly for cutting softer materials such as tiles, smooth stones, glasses, and composites.

Choose the Right Stand Attachment

If you are using rig-mounted drills for your core drilling projects, rigs must be secured to a surface using anchors, bolts, or vacuum seals. Determine the right stand attachment according to the walls or surfaces you will work on.

When attaching to a vertical or highly angled surface, wall anchors work best. On the other hand, a vacuum stand works well for a flat or slightly angled surface. This type of stand relies on suction to keep them firmly in place during drilling.

To minimize the risks of accidental drill slippage, professionals frequently use additional safety chains along with their tools.

Wear Protective Gear

As with most construction services, you must wear the proper safety equipment. Among these are protective glasses, rubber boots, a mask or ventilator, and ear plugs.

The operation of a concrete cutting machine generates a lot of dust and noise, so you should use safety gear for your eyes, ears, and mouth to prevent work-related medical problems.

Eliminate Tripping and Falling Hazards

Approximately 15% of accidental deaths at industrial work sites are caused by falls, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These accidents result in more than $12 billion in healthcare and disability costs each year for project managers in the U.S.

Take these precautions to prevent slips, trips, and falls while in service:

Never leave tools on the ground—clean them up as soon as possible.
Main walkways should be kept clear of dust, debris, and clutter.
Cover exposed cables and cords with safety tape.
Provide proper footwear for workers to reduce the risk of ill-fitting shoes.
Provide handrails and handholds in areas with poor balance.

Concrete Core Drills Service You Can Trust

If you’re using a concrete saw to create holes, don’t expect to work quickly. It may take hours to complete this process, and you should be willing to take your time in your construction project. By cutting too deep and too fast, you can damage the blade of your saw and overheat your equipment.

Before performing concrete core drilling, reach out to us for concrete scanning and other utility locating and mapping services in Southern California.

Email us at info@util-locate.com or contact us at 888-885-6228 at Util_Locate today!

What You Should Know About Pipe Inspection?

Without closed-circuit television (CCTV)/pipe inspection, it is often difficult to determine the extent of sewer pipe damage, pipe blockages, or where the pipe problem occurs.

Whenever subterranean sewer pipelines have been compromised by an intrusion, poor installation, or natural elements, having plumbing professionals inspect their integrity is a vital first step.

Therefore, if something goes wrong underground or inside a pipe that’s pretty hard to see, you will need to call sewer service companies who have all the right tools to fix anything—especially nowadays, where technology is increasingly involved in resolving issues than ever before.

What are CCTV/Pipe Inspections?

The process of employing a camera for inspection of pipes, sewer lines, or drains is known as CCTV sewer inspection.

Plumbers can utilize CCTV cameras to see the source of sewage problems without employing more invasive procedures such as dismantling walls or floors to gain access to the pipelines. In most cases, these services are more cost-effective and are considered environmentally friendly ways to pinpoint obstructions in sewers and pipes.

A CCTV camera can assist property owners in determining the cause of sewer damage, such as:

Root intrusion
Damage caused by earthquakes
Cracked pipes
Offset pipe joints
Corrosion
Deterioration caused by aging
Inadequate installation or previous repair attempts
Perforations caused by accident
Serious blockage

How Does CCTV/Pipe Inspection Work?

CCTV/Pipe inspection is a necessary maintenance procedure to avoid further damages and repairs to the pipes and drainage system. However, a major issue is that pipes, by nature, are often buried below the ground, which makes it difficult to inspect them for damage.

This procedure solves the problem by inserting a mobile CCTV camera into the pipe at its surface and then exploring the pipe length until the problem is discovered.

The CCTV sewer inspection is usually done with the latest waterproof CCTV unit. The data found by the closed-circuit television video is fed instantaneously to the CCTV technicians, which can be recorded and stored upon request. Using these cameras, they can obtain a clear picture of the conditions of your sewer pipe and detect any severe damages.

What are the Benefits of CCTV/Pipe Inspections?

The use of video equipment services during preliminary inspections is beneficial for property owners. The following are several reasons to hire an inspector who uses CCTV video during plumbing inspections:

Budget-Friendly

Homeowners dealing with damaged sewer lines can find the most affordable solution with the assistance of plumbing experts. Most of the time, it is not necessary to repair the entire underground sewer pipeline.

Through CCTV/pipe inspections, you can avoid an entire repair or replacement of your pipelines so. By locating and repairing only the damaged section, repair costs required to fix a pipe can be significantly reduced.

Environment-Friendly

Since this inspection method utilizes a remote-controlled, robotic CCTV unit to gather data, CCTV/pipe inspections do not require digging. Aside from CCTV sewer inspection being non-invasive to property structures, no damage will be done to plants, shrubs, and other natural elements as well.

Fast Detection of Issues

By using CCTV services, you can ensure that a plumbing issue will be identified quickly. CCTV cameras detect root causes of problems by inspecting the whole pipe, which reduces guesswork for plumbing professionals.

With just one inspection visit, you can get expert advice on repairing faulty pipework and plan for the repairs immediately.

Versatile

CCTV is a popular technology for pipe inspections, and it comes with many benefits. In addition to being fast, cost-effective, non-invasive, and accurate, there are many models on the market that offer a wide range of capabilities and functionality, so a CCTV system can be modified to suit any pipe inspection, even the smallest ones.

Trusted CCTV Pipe and CCTV Sewer Inspection Services for Your Needs

It’s easy to solve your underground sewer problems with Util-Locate‘s CCTV sewer and CCTV/pipe inspection services! Our team of plumbing professionals will find you the best option for your repair or restoration needs, and you could save tens of thousands of dollars.

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