Laboratory · Non-destructive testing of concrete structures
Non-destructive tests let us look inside a structure without damaging it: where the bars are, how deep the cover is, how uniform the concrete is and whether piles are sound. They are the fastest way to assess an existing building or check new work.
All six tests are accredited on site under ISO/IEC 17025 (DPA certificate LT 069). Where strength must be proven, we combine them with cores (BS EN 12504-1).
When you need these tests
- Seismic assessment and structural strengthening of existing buildings.
- Checking cover and bar spacing on new work before handover.
- Locating bars before drilling, coring or installing anchors.
- Integrity of bored and cast-in-place piles.
Accredited tests and standards
Reinforcement survey
| Test | What it tells you | Range | Standard | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Location of reinforcing bars | Locates bars before drilling, coring or fixing anchors | 0.5–80 mm | BS 1881-204:1988 | On site |
| Diameter of reinforcing bars | Estimates the bar diameter without breaking out concrete | Ø 8–40 mm | BS 1881-204:1988 | On site |
| Concrete cover to reinforcement | Concrete cover depth, the first defence against corrosion | Ø8: 8–80 mm; Ø40: 5–60 mm | BS 1881-204:1988 | On site |
Concrete quality
| Test | What it tells you | Range | Standard | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rebound hammer – estimated compressive strength | Surface hardness and estimated strength; maps uniformity | 10–70 MPa | BS EN 12504-2:2021 | On site |
| Ultrasonic pulse velocity | Homogeneity, voids and cracks inside the concrete | 10–6000 m/s | BS EN 12504-4:2021; ASTM C597-22 | On site |
Foundations
| Test | What it tells you | Range | Standard | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pile integrity testing | Detects cracks, necking and defects along cast-in-place piles | 1–30 m | ASTM D5882-16 | On site |
Sampling and what to send us
- Nothing to send: our technicians come to site.
- Share drawings if available, and arrange access to the elements and a clean concrete surface.
- For pile integrity, the pile heads must be trimmed to sound concrete.
What your test report contains
- A unique report number, the accredited laboratory’s details and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation mark for accredited tests.
- Sample identification, sampling details and the condition of the sample on receipt.
- The standard and method used for every test, with any deviation stated.
- Results with units, and comparison with the specified limits when you give them to us.
- Signature of the authorised laboratory staff.
Frequently asked questions
Can a rebound hammer replace cores?
No. It maps uniformity and gives an estimate; Eurocode assessments need cores to calibrate the estimate. Used together they reduce the number of cores needed.
Related testing
Tell us the material, the quantity of samples and the specification you are working to. We’ll confirm the tests, the sampling and the price.