A ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey is often the only geophysical technique compatible with cluttered urban conditions that prevent other techniques.
It has capacity to work through a wide variety of surface materials. From soft landscaping, through to hard surfaces such as tarmac and concrete, both inside and outside buildings. This makes it an ideal technique for many archaeological applications. Ground Penetrating Radar is particularly adept at not only mapping buried structures but approximating their depth. This provides an all-important extra level of detail.
GPR works by pulsing electromagnetic waves into the ground and measuring the strength and time delay of the returning signal. This allows it to approximate the depth of the buried horizon.
Typical locations range from gardens, courtyards, car parks and derelict land. As well as floors of churches, basements and graveyards. Structures can also be investigated typically using higher frequency antennas.
Multiple antennas to suit your projects including:
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High frequency – from 900MHz to 2GHz antennas, ideal for use on walls to locate voids or chimney flues.
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Dual Frequency - combining a 300MHz and 800MHz antennas, ensuring you locate the smaller shallower features and large deeper features in one pass.
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High Density - 8 channels of data at 8cm spacing with 12x better resolution than a standard survey
Features commonly identified by Archaeological GPR surveys:
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Air Voids – vaults, tombs, tunnels, chambers, cellars
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Structures – Foundations, rubble fill, buried paths
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Ditches – enclosure ditches, moats, trenches
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Discrete features – Hearths, pits, garden features
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Above : High density radar survey bein carried at our Croome Court.
Below an example of High-Density Ground penetrating radar (GPR) was carried out in Rutland, following the discovery of a Roman Mosaic. The survey mapped a complex of structures: the main villa building; subsidiary villa buildings; formal gardens; possible mausolea; a probable bathhouse; farm buildings and water wells. In addition, we believe there is a smaller building which could be a chapel and two parallel rows of large pits which may indicate an aisled hall.
Above : Timeslice plot (plan view of GPR data) showing Roman villa complex, consisting of seven individual buildings.
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How accurate is SUMO's underground utility survey and what types of utilities can it locate?Using cutting-edge technologies like electro-magnetics, signal induced threading, and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), our underground utility surveys accurately detect a wide array of buried utilities including metal and plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms, and fiber optic cables. The methodology ensures high accuracy without the need for invasive trial holes.
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What is the turnaround time for obtaining results with SUMO's Underground Utility Detection service?SUMO’s service is built for rapid response. Contractors can receive immediate results onsite. Our equipment provides real-time information, and once we leave the site, the detected utilities are visibly marked on the ground surface for quick reference.
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Does SUMO provide detailed mapping of the detected utilities for permanent records or construction purposes?Absolutely, SUMO not only marks the detected utilities on-site but also offers high-quality, color-coded survey drawings. These drawings can include topographic features and a comprehensive record of the utility detection survey, ensuring it meets the client’s needs for future reference or pre-construction design works.
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Topographical and Geophysical surveyIn addition to mapping out utilities, our experience team can accurately survey the land, creating topographical drawings for use. With our state-of-the-art aerial technology, nothing is missed.
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What additional information can be included in the underground utility mapping service provided by SUMO?In addition to topographic features, SUMO’s mapping service can include fixed surface utility features such as inspection chambers, valve boxes, and telegraph poles. It can also incorporate key topographic details like building lines, fence lines, kerb lines, street furniture, street names, building names, and house numbers, facilitating easy site location.
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Does the utility mapping service by SUMO include standard referencing and compatibility with existing survey data?Yes, SUMO ensures the utility mapping references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. Additionally, the drawings can be supplied to a specified grid and level datum and can overlay an existing topographical survey, making it a versatile and adaptable service for various project needs.
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What sets SUMO Services apart from other survey providers?SUMO stands out due to our impeccable level of service with nationwide coverage, state-of-the-art equipment, and our commitment to delivering top-quality, detailed colour-coded survey drawings in both hard and electronic formats.
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How do I request a survey quotation from SUMO Services?Requesting a quotation is easy. Just click on the "Request a Survey Quotation" button on this page, and our team will get in touch with you promptly.
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Can I book a SUMO Survey online?Yes, you can! Simply click on the "Book a SUMO Survey" button on this page, and you can schedule your survey with us at your convenience.
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What type of survey is suitable for my project or site?Our experienced team will work with you to determine the most appropriate survey for your specific needs. Contact us, and we'll assist you in making the right choice.
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Can I obtain both digital and hard copies of survey drawings?Absolutely. We offer the convenience of electronic copies for digital use and hard copies for your records. Just let us know your preference.
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Do you provide custom survey solutions for unique projects?Yes, we understand that every project is unique. Our team is highly adaptable and can tailor our surveying services to meet your specific requirements.
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How do I get in touch with SUMO Services for further questions?For any additional questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us through the contact form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.
Survey Methodologies
Detailed Magnetic Survey
Soil Self-Potential
Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)
Soil Thermal-Resistivity Testing
Electromagnetic Ground Conductivity
Electromagnetic Location (EML)
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
