Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Blog & Insights

Welcome to the RentGPRFlorida.com Blog — where we share real-world Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) advice for Florida contractors, engineers, and anyone working below the surface. Whether you're scanning concrete in Miami or searching for utilities in Tampa, these tips and stories will help you get better results and avoid costly mistakes.

Check back often for new posts about scanning best practices, real-world rental success stories, and tips for getting the most from your GPR rental.

Top 3 Reasons to Use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) on Your Next Florida Project

Published: June 16, 2025

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is no longer a “nice-to-have” tool for big engineering firms. Contractors, municipalities, and even maintenance teams in Florida are using GPR to stay safe, avoid mistakes, and keep projects moving. Here’s why you should, too:

1. Avoid Hitting Hidden Utilities and Rebar

Florida jobsites hide conduits, rebar, water lines, or telecom cables. GPR scans slabs before cutting, saving you from serious safety risks and huge losses.

2. Perform Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

GPR doesn’t damage concrete or asphalt. Perfect for hospitals, schools, and busy zones in Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville.

3. Save Time and Money

For a few hundred dollars, renting GPR avoids thousands in delays, rework, and repair costs.

How Ground Penetrating Radar Saved Me $25,000 on a Miami Construction Project

Published: April 11, 2025

A Miami contractor was drilling 4-inch core holes in a concrete parking garage. He rented our US Radar Quantum Imager and discovered hidden electrical lines where drilling was planned.

• He avoided a full building electrical shutdown
• Saved $25,000+ in repairs
• Delivered the project on time

“GPR paid for itself in one afternoon. Now we won’t core without it.”

What Are the Limitations of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)?

Published: February 28, 2025

Moisture & Soil Type Matter

Florida’s soil and moisture impact depth. Clay or wet soil can reduce visibility to just a few inches.

GPR Doesn't Identify Objects

It shows reflections — not object types. You must interpret results.

Depth Depends on Conditions

• Dry soil + low-frequency: 8–10 ft
• Wet concrete/clay: 4–8 in

Conclusion

GPR is powerful, but not perfect. Combine with visual checks and expert analysis when possible.

Should You Buy or Rent GPR Equipment in Florida?

Published: February 14, 2025

Buying GPR = High Cost

Expect to spend $35,000–$50,000 plus training, maintenance, and software.

Renting GPR = Low Risk

• Rent for a day/week
• Free phone support
• Optional in-person training

Verdict:

If you use it under 15 times/year, rent. Keep your capital for revenue-producing work.

What Can Ground Penetrating Radar Detect Under Concrete, Asphalt, or Soil?

Published: February 7, 2025

Concrete Slabs:

• Rebar mesh, post-tension cables
• Conduits (power, plumbing)
• Voids and honeycombs

Asphalt:

• Utility crossings
• Pavement thickness
• Subbase defects

Soil:

• Utility pipes and tanks
• Voids and sinkholes
• Buried debris or vaults