When time and budgets are tight, it can be tempting to skip steps before drilling, cutting, or coring concrete. But ignoring concrete scanning is one of the costliest mistakes you can make on a project. What lies beneath the surface can turn a routine job into a safety hazard, a financial blowout, or both.

Here are the top five risks of working blind without scanning first.

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1. Striking Reinforcement Steel (Rebar)

Rebar provides essential strength to concrete structures. Damaging it by drilling or cutting not only weakens the structure but can also lead to expensive repairs and compliance issues. In some cases, damaged reinforcement may require engineering assessments or remedial work that delays the project.

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2. Cutting Post-Tension Cables

Post-tension cables are under extreme stress. Severing one can be catastrophic—leading to serious injury, structural damage, or even project shutdown. 

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3. Damaging Electrical Conduits

Hidden electrical conduits run through many slabs and walls. Striking a live cable can cause electric shock, fire hazards, and costly downtime while emergency repairs are carried out.

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4. Breaking Water or Gas Pipes

Concrete often conceals plumbing and gas lines. Cutting into these not only causes immediate flooding or leakage but can also damage surrounding finishes, equipment, and safety systems.

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5. Project Delays and Added Costs

Even a small mistake can snowball into days of downtime, rework, and extra labour costs. On top of that, failing to scan may void insurance or create compliance problems with health and safety regulations.

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The Smart Choice: Scan Before You Cut

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scanning provides a safe, non-destructive way to see inside concrete. It safeguards your team, saves costs, and protects your reputation.