Chasing

A chase is a groove or channel cut into an existing layer or substrate to accommodate services such as pipes or cables. Chasing is the act of cutting a chase and is usually undertaken in solid wall or solid floor construction.

The width of the chase will depend on the type and number of the services to be enclosed but typically is not usually wider than 100mm. It is not normal practice to cut chases for large size services such as rainwater or sewage pipes.

Chases can be cut into brick, plaster and concrete-block walls. They can also be cut into the screeds of concrete floors if no provision for pipes or cables was made at the design stage or if an unforeseen requirement has arisen.

Once the required pipe or cable is secured into the chase it can be concealed by plaster, cement mortar or other surface finish. Some services such as power cables, must be housed in protective tubing to separate them from plaster or other enveloping materials.

The process of creating a chase is likely to be undertaken by an electrician, or a plumber if a pipe is being installed in an existing structure.

In the case of stud, dry-wall and other hollow constructions, it may be possible to route services inside the void in the partition or wall, but this is not regarded as chasing.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Cement mortar.
• Concrete.
• Dry lining.
• Drywall.
• Electrical installation.
• Electrical safety.
• Electrician.
• Finishes.
• Mortar.
• Wall types.
• Wet trades.