When structural modifications require precise circular cuts for plumbing, electrical, or HVAC installations, concrete core drilling is the industry standard. However, executing this with absolute precision while maintaining the structural integrity of a building requires more than just heavy machinery—it requires a meticulous process, strict code compliance, and an unwavering commitment to safety.
Below is an overview of our professional concrete core drilling process
Before a drill ever touches concrete, we conduct a thorough site evaluation. We utilize Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to map out the interior of the concrete slab or wall.
This non-destructive testing allows us to locate embedded utilities, rebar, post-tension cables, and structural supports. Striking a post-tension cable can be catastrophic; our scanning process ensures we know exactly what lies beneath the surface before proceeding.
Once the scanning is complete, the safe drilling zones are marked. We coordinate with site engineers to ensure the proposed core locations do not compromise the load-bearing capacity of the structure, strictly adhering to the structural design parameters outlined in the building code.
We secure the core drill rig to the surface using vacuum suction pads or drop-in anchors, ensuring zero movement during operation. To mitigate silica dust—a major health hazard—and keep the drill bit cool, we utilize a specialized wet-drilling technique.
We simultaneously set up a slurry containment and vacuum system. This ensures the workspace remains pristine and prevents water damage to the surrounding property.
Using diamond-tipped core bits, we drill to the required depth and diameter. Our operators constantly monitor the RPMs and water flow to ensure a smooth, clean cut. Once the cut is complete, the concrete core is carefully extracted using specialized tongs or wedge anchors, leaving a perfectly smooth and precise hole ready for utility installation.
Strict Adherence to the Ontario Building Code (OBC)
Compliance is not optional; it is the foundation of our work. Our core drilling processes are heavily governed by the Ontario Building Code (OBC) to ensure occupant safety and building longevity:
Structural Integrity (OBC Division B, Part 4): Every core location is evaluated to ensure we do not sever critical structural reinforcements. Unapproved cutting can violate the structural design criteria of Part 4. We always ensure our work aligns with the engineer of record's specifications.
Fire Stops for Penetrations (OBC Division B, Article 3.1.9.1.): When core drilling creates a penetration through a fire-rated floor or wall assembly (such as for mechanical or electrical runs), the code mandates that the integrity of the fire separation must be maintained. We prepare all core holes to the exact specifications required for subsequent fire-stopping materials to be installed, ensuring the building retains its required fire-resistance rating.
Uncompromising Safety and Unmatched Efficiency
On our most recent large-scale commercial project, our commitment to protocol yielded exceptional results.
Safety First: We operated under strict adherence to Ministry of Labour (MOL) regulations and our own internal safety policies. By enforcing comprehensive PPE usage, rigorous silica dust control plans, and daily safety briefings, we proudly completed this project with zero near misses and zero injuries.
Operational Efficiency: Because of our preemptive GPR scanning, meticulous setup, and highly trained operators, we encountered no delays. Our team optimized the workflow to the point where we completed the entire project three days ahead of schedule.
Most importantly for our client, our slurry containment and quiet-drilling protocols meant the rest of their facility could continue operating normally. Our efficiency resulted in zero unplanned downtime on the property, saving the client significant revenue and operational headaches.