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
Featured articles and news
From Chaucer to Fawlty Towers.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
New project and cultural district described in detail.
The nature of EPCs, crticism and inaccuracies.
History, issues and redesign.
From waste recycling to energy performance the hierchy.
An introduction to WERCS and WEEE responsibilities
Dealing with 2 million tonnes of waste equipment a year.
Global BACS Market: analytics and optimisation
A BSRIA glance at building automation and control systems.
What it is and how to use it.
Types of insulating plaster by binder and insulant.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.