Core drilling is one of the most precise and efficient ways to create clean, circular holes in concrete, asphalt, brick, or masonry surfaces. It plays a critical role in commercial construction throughout North Carolina, whether you’re installing plumbing, HVAC, fire suppression systems, or structural supports.

At D&C Concrete One, we’ve been providing professional concrete core drilling services for over 30 years. Our clients across Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, Garner, and surrounding areas rely on our expertise to deliver accurate, OSHA-compliant results that support safe and efficient project execution.

If you’re new to core drilling—or want to understand why professional service matters—this guide breaks it down for you.

What Is Concrete Core Drilling?

Core drilling is the process of removing a cylinder of material—known as a “core”—from a solid surface using a specialized diamond-tipped drill. These holes are commonly used to allow pipes, wiring, conduit, and mechanical systems to pass through concrete slabs, walls, ceilings, or foundations.

Unlike jackhammers or other impact tools, core drills are non-destructive. They produce minimal vibration, low noise, and clean edges, making them ideal for finished or sensitive spaces.

Typical Core Drilling Applications Include:

  • Plumbing and drainage system penetrations
  • HVAC duct or vent openings
  • Electrical conduit or data line access
  • Anchor bolt or dowel installations
  • Fire suppression or sprinkler lines
  • Structural testing or material sampling

Whether you’re working on a high-rise, a school renovation, or a new warehouse build, core drilling is often a must.

Why Core Drilling Should Be Done by a Professional

While the process might look straightforward, successful core drilling requires skill, safety awareness, and the right equipment. Here’s why working with a company like D&C Concrete One makes a difference:

1. Accuracy That Protects Your Structure

Poorly drilled holes can compromise a wall’s integrity or damage embedded elements like rebar or post-tension cables. Our team reviews project specs, scans for obstructions, and drills with millimeter precision to avoid costly errors.

Whether it’s a 2-inch hole for a pipe or a 10-inch core for a heavy-duty utility line, we ensure exact alignment and depth every time.

2. Speed and Efficiency on Busy Job Sites

Time matters on commercial construction jobs. Our high-powered drills are capable of cutting through reinforced concrete quickly, allowing your team to stay on schedule. We’re flexible, responsive, and equipped to handle jobs of any size — from single penetrations to dozens of cores in one day.

3. OSHA Compliance and Safety First

Core drilling can generate silica dust, present electrical hazards, and require ladder or overhead work. At D&C Concrete One, our crews are fully OSHA-trained and follow strict jobsite safety protocols including:

  • PPE compliance
  • Wet cutting or vacuum-assisted dust collection
  • Site hazard assessments and clear zone marking
  • Proper rigging, anchoring, and securing of all equipment
  • First Aid & CPR training for on-site personnel

Safety isn’t a box we check — it’s embedded in every phase of our work.

4. Less Disruption, More Precision

Our equipment is designed to minimize disruption to the surrounding area. This is especially important in:

  • Operational buildings
  • Hospitals or schools
  • Renovation projects
  • High-traffic zones
  • Environments with strict noise or dust limits

We often work off-hours or within tight constraints to help clients keep business running while construction is underway.

Core Drilling Across the Triangle: Who We Serve

D&C Concrete One provides core drilling services for a wide variety of commercial and industrial clients throughout Raleigh, Durham, Garner, Wake Forest, and surrounding areas.

We frequently serve:

  • General contractors
  • Commercial builders
  • Electrical, HVAC, and plumbing contractors
  • Facility managers
  • Utility and telecom installers
  • Government and municipal agencies
  • Industrial plant and warehouse operators

Our team is equipped to work on everything from new ground-up builds to retrofits and utility upgrades.

Our Full-Service Concrete Capabilities

In addition to core drilling, D&C Concrete One is your trusted partner for:

  • Saw Cutting: Precision slab and wall cuts for utility access, trenching, and demolition.
  • Structural Concrete Work: Footings, retaining walls, foundations, and more.
  • Place & Finish: High-quality slab pours and surface finishes.
  • Curb & Gutter Installation: Clean, code-compliant curb work for roads, lots, and sidewalks.
  • Stamped & Colored Concrete: Decorative surfaces for commercial spaces, plazas, and entrances.

Our crews are highly experienced, fully insured, and committed to delivering results that last.

Common Core Drilling Sizes and Specifications

We can drill holes ranging from 1 inch to over 18 inches in diameter, and to almost any depth depending on the material and project specs. Common requests include:

  • 2″–4″ holes for conduit or small pipes
  • 6″–8″ holes for HVAC sleeves or drains
  • 12″+ holes for fire risers or heavy utilities

Our team will verify spacing, orientation, and clearance for every hole to ensure compatibility with surrounding systems or fixtures.

Why Choose D&C Concrete One for Core Drilling?

Here’s why commercial contractors and facility owners continue to choose D&C Concrete One:

  • 30+ years of hands-on concrete experience
  • Locally owned and operated in North Carolina
  • Specialized, well-maintained equipment
  • OSHA-certified crews trained for high-performance drilling
  • Responsive customer service and accurate scheduling
  • Proven track record with major contractors and municipalities

When you choose D&C Concrete One, you’re choosing a partner who understands construction timelines, compliance standards, and the need for dependable work — especially when it comes to concrete.

Request a Free Core Drilling Estimate

If you’re managing a commercial project in Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, Garner, or anywhere in the Triangle area and need expert core drilling services, contact D&C Concrete One today at (919) 971-6260 to schedule a free estimate. Our experienced, safety-first team is ready to help you drill clean, accurate holes for any utility, infrastructure, or structural need — backed by decades of proven concrete expertise.