What can GPR locating find?

GPR locating can find non-metallic utilities, concrete structures, underground voids, sewer laterals, and subsurface changes in soil or materials.

Is GPR better than EM locating?

GPR and EM have different strengths. EM excels at conductive utilities; GPR excels at non-metal and complex subsurface imaging. Often they’re used together.

Does soil type affect GPR depth?

Yes. Soil moisture, clay, and rocky conditions influence radar penetration depth and clarity.

Does 811 locate private utilities?

No. 811 typically marks public utilities only. Private utilities such as private water lines, sewer laterals, septic systems, irrigation, propane, and private electrical lines are usually not included.

What is private utility locating?

Private utility locating identifies underground utilities located beyond the public connection point, including private water, sewer, septic, electrical, and other privately owned lines.

Can you locate PVC or non-metallic utilities?

Yes. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is commonly used to locate non-metallic utilities such as PVC and clay pipes, especially when tracer wire is not present.

Can you locate septic tanks and drain fields?

Yes. Septic system locating, including septic tanks and drain fields, is a common service for property planning, repairs, and replacements.

How accurate is utility locating?

Utility locating provides approximate utility locations. Depth, soil conditions, and utility material can affect results. Verification by potholing is recommended before excavation.

Do you provide utility locating near me?

Yes. Twin City Locating provides mobile private utility locating and GPR services throughout Southwest Washington, including multiple counties and surrounding rural areas.

GPR Locating Near Me Precision Underground Mapping

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) locating provides detailed underground imaging to find utilities, voids, debris, underground structures, and non-metallic utilities - information that electromagnetic locating alone cannot reliably detect.

What Is GPR Locating?

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) uses radar pulses to create a real-time picture of subsurface conditions. It is especially valuable where electromagnetic methods struggle, such as with non-metallic utilities (plastic, PVC), abandoned lines, or areas with no tracer wires.

Why Choose GPR?

GPR is ideal when:

Non-metal utilities like PVC pipes must be found
You need mapping of subsurface features
Tracer wire is not present
Electromagnetic methods are insufficient

GPR is non-invasive and safe - no digging or disruptive excavation required.

The machine is roughly the size of a lawnmower. Fairly stable or clear ground is required for this method.

What Can GPR Locate?

Non-metallic utilities (PVC, plastic)
Concrete structures
Underground voids or obstructions
Sewer laterals
Changes in soil composition
Utility intersections and congested underground environments

How Does GPR Works?

GPR sends high-frequency radio waves into the ground. When the waves hit a boundary between materials (e.g., soil to pipe), they reflect back and are recorded. A trained operator interprets the data to map the subsurface features.

GPR vs EM Locating

Feature Electromagnetic (EM) GPR

Finds metal or conductor ✅ Yes ⚠ Limited

Finds non-metal ❌ No ✅ Yes

Depth estimates Yes ⚠ Limited

Best for tracer wire Yes Yes

Requires conductive path Yes No

Both methods are often best used together for full utility mapping.

GPR Locating Pricing

Starting at $275 within Centralia city limits, with a travel fee for every 15 minutes from Centralia City Hall. More can be found HERE for detailed pricing and cost breakdown for each service.

Service Area

We offer GPR locating throughout Centralia, WA and surrounding areas including Lewis, Thurston, Mason, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties. Statewide service available on request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What affects GPR depth and clarity?

A: Soil type, moisture, and subsurface conditions influence penetration and resolution. Wet clay soils generally reduce depth.

2. Q: Do I need EM and GPR together?

A: Often, yes. EM excels at conductive utilities; GPR excels where EM can’t reach.

3. Q: How soon can I schedule GPR locating?
A: Appointments are available weekdays after 4pm, evenings, and weekends. Travel time and scope are confirmed before booking.

Schedule Your GPR Locate

Professional, accurate, and safe underground scanning - call to schedule or book online.