Wall Chase in Construction: Purpose, Types, Methods & Best Practices
In construction and renovation projects, the integration of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems must be done in a way that ensures functionality, aesthetics, and safety. One method to achieve this is through the use of a wall chase—a hidden passageway carved into or behind walls to house mechanical or electrical systems.
A wall chase serves as a discreet and efficient method of routing necessary services without compromising the visual and structural integrity of the building. This comprehensive article will explain the definition, uses, types, materials, code requirements, and essential tips for installing wall chases correctly.
What Is a Wall Chase?
A wall chase is a purpose-built or carved-out groove or cavity within a wall that allows builders to conceal plumbing pipes, electrical conduits, communication cables, or ventilation ducts. Once the necessary services are installed, the chase is covered and refinished, leaving no visible traces of the systems within.
Core Functions of a Wall Chase:
- Houses electrical wiring, water pipes, or low-voltage cables
- Improves the overall aesthetics by eliminating exposed installations
- Provides a safe and secure pathway for systems
- Enhances fire safety and insulation when installed correctly
Why Use a Wall Chase in Construction?
There are several key reasons why builders, electricians, and plumbers opt to install wall chases:
✅ Clean Visual Finish
Wall chases eliminate the need for bulky conduit covers or trunking by concealing services within the wall, ensuring a streamlined appearance.
✅ Space Efficiency
Particularly in compact residential and commercial buildings, wall chases save interior space compared to external installations.
✅ Protection of Services
Cables and pipes enclosed in wall chases are less vulnerable to damage from impact or environmental exposure.
✅ Future-Proofing
Properly designed chases allow for easier retrofits and upgrades, especially in smart homes or commercial tech systems.
Common Uses of Wall Chases
| System Type | Wall Chase Purpose |
|---|---|
| Electrical wiring | Hides power lines for outlets, switches, and lighting systems |
| Plumbing pipes | Routes water supply and drainage lines, especially in bathrooms |
| HVAC ducting | Carries flexible ducts in compact areas without visible soffits |
| Communication cables | Conceals LAN, fiber optic, and coaxial cables in modern offices |
| Audio/Video installations | Facilitates hidden home theater or intercom systems wiring |
Types of Wall Chases
Wall chases vary depending on function, orientation, and construction phase.
1. Built-In Chases
Pre-planned cavities built during the construction phase. Common in new builds, especially in drywall partitions.
2. Cut-In (Retrofit) Chases
Grooves cut into existing masonry, block, or concrete walls. Used in renovation or remodeling projects.
3. Surface Chase with Framing
Drywall or plywood enclosures built on top of existing walls to create chase spaces without cutting into structural material.
4. Modular Chases
Pre-fabricated wall systems that include built-in channels for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) installations.
Vertical vs. Horizontal Wall Chasing
| Chase Orientation | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Chase | Runs up/down along the height of the wall | Electrical switches, vertical piping |
| Horizontal Chase | Runs side-to-side across the wall | TV wiring, low wall plumbing |
| Diagonal Chase | Typically discouraged due to structural concerns | Only used when vertical/horizontal is not possible |
Note: Excessive or poorly executed horizontal or diagonal chases can compromise wall strength and must follow code limitations.
Materials & Tools Required for Wall Chasing
| Material/Tool | Function |
|---|---|
| Wall chaser machine | Power tool with twin blades for cutting neat grooves |
| Hammer & chisel | Manual chasing for small or intricate areas |
| Angle grinder | Used to cut deeper or wider grooves, especially in concrete |
| Conduit (PVC/EMT/MC) | Protects electrical wiring |
| PEX or CPVC pipes | Common for concealed plumbing installations |
| Firestop materials | Prevents fire spread through chases in fire-rated assemblies |
| Plaster or filler | Closes and finishes the chase after system installation |
How to Install a Wall Chase: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Plan the Chase Layout
- Use blueprints to determine optimal paths
- Avoid cutting through load-bearing areas or beams
- Separate systems (e.g., don’t combine electrical and plumbing)
Step 2: Mark the Wall
- Use chalk lines or laser levels to mark chase paths
- Clearly indicate depths and access points
Step 3: Cut the Chase
- Use a wall chaser or grinder for clean lines
- Depth should match the diameter of the service being concealed
Step 4: Install Services
- Place conduits, pipes, or cables securely in the chase
- Ensure proper clamping and insulation as per code
Step 5: Seal and Finish
- Cover the chase with cement plaster or filler
- Sand and paint or tile to match the rest of the wall surface
Important Code Considerations
Wall chasing is subject to building codes and best practices to prevent structural issues and ensure safety.
| Aspect | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Chase depth (vertical) | Not more than â…“ wall thickness |
| Chase depth (horizontal) | Not more than â…™ wall thickness |
| Fire-rated walls | Use UL-listed firestop systems for penetrations |
| Separation of services | Maintain distance between electrical and plumbing systems |
| Inspection access | Install access panels where future maintenance is expected |
Always verify with local building authorities or code books like the NEC or IBC.
Advantages of Using Wall Chases
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Visual appeal | Hidden services result in seamless wall finishes |
| Code compliance | Facilitates routing in line with modern safety regulations |
| Space-saving | Frees up interior wall space for furniture or decoration |
| Reduced surface damage | Protects systems from bumps, moisture, and sunlight |
| Flexibility in layout | Enables custom placement of outlets, switches, and fixtures |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-chasing structural walls: Weakens integrity and may require reinforcement
- Improper sealing: Allows moisture or pests to enter the wall cavity
- Mixing service types: Can result in overheating or code violations
- No documentation: Failing to record the layout can cause issues during future renovations
- Using non-rated materials: Particularly dangerous in fire-rated partitions or wet zones
Wall Chase vs Surface Trunking
| Feature | Wall Chase | Surface Trunking |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Invisible after finishing | Exposed and may clash with decor |
| Structural impact | Requires cutting into wall | No structural modification |
| Ease of maintenance | Difficult without plans or access | Easy to open and repair |
| Cost | Higher due to labor and finishing | Lower initial cost |
| Use case | Preferred in luxury or modern homes | Industrial or temporary solutions |
Best Practices for Wall Chase Installations
- Plan early during design phase
- Avoid excessive horizontal chases in masonry or load-bearing walls
- Use firestop collars for pipes or conduits passing between fire-rated areas
- Label behind finishes using stud finders or chase path diagrams
- Allow enough drying time for filler before painting or tiling
Conclusion
A wall chase is an invaluable method in modern construction for hiding unsightly but necessary building services like wiring, plumbing, or air ducts. When executed with precision and according to code, wall chases ensure a visually appealing, safe, and functional environment. They reflect thoughtful planning and are especially important in high-end residential, hospitality, and commercial applications.
For builders, homeowners, and architects alike, understanding wall chases means better project outcomes and fewer complications down the road.
FAQs About Wall Chases
Q1: Can I chase any wall in my house?
Not always. Load-bearing walls, concrete beams, or fire-rated partitions have strict limitations or may require alternative solutions like surface conduits or false walls.
Q2: How deep can a wall chase be?
- Vertical chases: Up to ⅓ of the wall’s thickness
- Horizontal chases: Limited to ⅙ of the wall’s thickness
Always check with your local building code authority.
Q3: What’s the best way to chase a wall without making too much dust?
Use a wall chaser with dust extraction (connected to a vacuum). It’s cleaner and more efficient than manual chiseling.
Q4: Is it safe to chase walls for electrical wires in bathrooms?
Yes, but you must use moisture-resistant conduits and seal all gaps. It’s critical to follow wet zone installation codes.
Q5: Can I chase multiple services (e.g., plumbing and electric) in one chase?
It’s not recommended. Mixing services can cause safety issues such as electrical shorts or water leaks affecting cables.
Q6: How do I locate a hidden wall chase later on?
Use a stud finder with wire detection or refer to as-built construction drawings. Always document chase paths during installation.
Q7: Are wall chases required to be fire-stopped?
If the chase penetrates fire-rated walls, floors, or ceilings, yes—you must use approved firestop materials around conduits and pipes.
Wall chases are essential for modern, clutter-free, and efficient interior designs. When installed correctly, they provide lasting benefits with minimal drawbacks—making them a smart choice for nearly every construction or renovation project.
