What Is Chases in Masonry
Chases in masonry refer to vertical or horizontal grooves or channels that are created within a brick or stone wall to accommodate the placement of pipes, wiring, or other utilities.
These chases eliminate the need to surface-mount or expose such conduits, providing a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing finish to the wall.
They are typically created by cutting or routing into the masonry material and are later concealed behind plaster or other finishes.
Chases in masonry effectively contribute to the functionality and visual appeal of a building by efficiently hiding essential services within the structure.
Did You Know?
1. Chases in masonry are long, narrow grooves or channels that are typically cut into walls or floors to accommodate electrical or plumbing installations.
2. In ancient Egypt, chases were commonly used in the construction of tombs and temples to create hidden passages and secret chambers.
3. The use of chases in masonry dates back thousands of years, with evidence of their existence seen in architectural remains from ancient Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley civilizations.
4. Chases can be found in various architectural styles around the world, including the intricate maze-like chases in the Gothic cathedrals of Europe, which were often used for concealing treasures.
5. Chasing, the process of creating decorative designs or patterns by engraving or embossing on the surface of metals, shares a similar name to chases in masonry but is an entirely different artistic technique.
Definition Of Chases In Masonry
Chases in masonry refer to the vertical or horizontal grooves or channels that are created within the construction material. These are usually cut into walls, floors, or ceilings to accommodate various services such as pipes, wires, or conduits. Chases can be made using hand tools or power tools, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
The term “chase” is derived from the French word ‘chasser,’ meaning “to cut or notch.” In masonry, chases are essentially channels that are cut into the wall surface to hide or encase services, allowing for a visually appealing finished result without compromising the structural integrity of the building.
Chases in masonry are commonly used in both residential and commercial construction, providing a practical solution for concealing utilities while maintaining the overall aesthetics of the building. The creation of chases requires skilled craftsmanship and careful planning to ensure the functionality and safety of the installed services.
Purpose And Importance Of Chases In Masonry
The primary purpose of chases in masonry is to house various utilities, including electrical wires, plumbing pipes, and HVAC ducts, within the structural elements of a building. By creating channels within the masonry, these services can be concealed from view, providing a clean, unobstructed appearance to the walls, floors, or ceilings.
Chases also serve an important role in maintaining the integrity of the building. By controlling the placement and routing of the services, chases prevent damage caused by accidental punctures or cuts during subsequent construction or renovations. Moreover, chases allow for easy access to utilities for maintenance or repairs, minimizing disruption to the building occupants.
Additionally, chases play a crucial role in fire safety. By segregating electrical and other potentially hazardous services within dedicated channels, chases help contain any potential fire outbreaks and prevent the rapid spread of flames within the building. This enhances the overall safety of the occupants and allows for effective emergency response.
- Chases house various utilities in masonry
- Conceal services from view for a clean appearance
- Maintain building integrity by preventing damage
- Allow for easy access to utilities for maintenance or repairs
- Play a crucial role in fire safety by containing potential fire outbreaks and preventing rapid spread of flames within the building
Types Of Chases In Masonry
Chases in masonry can vary in shape, size, and orientation depending on the nature of the services being housed and the specific requirements of the construction project. Some common types of chases include:
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Vertical Chases: These are typically used for running vertical pipe lines, electrical conduits, or HVAC ducts between floors or within walls. Vertical chases are created by cutting long, straight channels into the masonry, providing a path for the services to be routed.
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Horizontal Chases: These are channels that are cut horizontally into the masonry, typically on walls or ceilings, to accommodate services such as electrical wires or plumbing pipes. Horizontal chases are often concealed by drywall or other finishing materials to maintain a seamless appearance.
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Chase Walls: In some cases, a dedicated chase wall may be constructed, which entails building a separate wall alongside the main structure to house services. These chase walls are easier to access and modify if needed, without affecting the main structure of the building.
Considerations For Creating Chases In Masonry
When creating chases in masonry, several factors need to be considered to ensure a successful and efficient installation:
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Structural Integrity: It is essential to ensure that the creation of chases does not compromise the load-bearing capacity of the masonry walls or floors. Proper calculations and engineering expertise are necessary to determine safe locations and dimensions for the chases.
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Coordination with Other Trades: Chases need to be planned in conjunction with other trades involved in the construction process. Coordination with electricians, plumbers, and HVAC professionals is crucial to avoid conflicts and ensure proper alignment of services within the chases.
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Building Codes and Regulations: Compliance with local building codes and regulations is imperative when designing and constructing chases in masonry. Fire safety codes, electrical regulations, and accessibility requirements need to be followed to guarantee the safety and functionality of the installed services.
Common Uses For Chases In Masonry
Chases in masonry have a wide range of applications in both residential and commercial construction. They serve the following purposes:
1. Electrical Wiring: Chases are commonly used to conceal electrical wiring within the walls or ceilings of buildings. This ensures a neat and tidy appearance while allowing for easy access to electrical services for maintenance or upgrades.
2. Plumbing and HVAC: Chases provide a route for plumbing pipes and HVAC ductwork, allowing for efficient distribution of water and air throughout the building. Concealing these services within chases helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of the space.
3. Data and Communication Infrastructure: Chases also serve as pathways for data cables, internet wiring, and other communication infrastructure. This ensures a clean and organized approach to technology integration within the building.
4. Fire Safety Systems: Chases house fire safety systems such as sprinkler pipes and fire alarm cabling. By segregating these services within dedicated channels, chases help prevent accidental damage and facilitate easy maintenance.
In conclusion, chases in masonry are essential elements of modern construction. They provide a practical solution for concealing utilities while maintaining the architectural beauty and safety of the building. These channels help organize and protect the various services running within the walls, floors, and ceilings, guaranteeing the efficient functioning of a building’s infrastructure.
- Chases conceal electrical wiring
- Chases provide a route for plumbing and HVAC systems
- Chases serve as pathways for data and communication infrastructure
- Chases house fire safety systems
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are chases in construction?
In construction, a chase refers to a designated vertical space within a wall that allows for the installation of pipes or wires. These chases are strategically built to ensure efficient routing and organization of various utilities throughout the building. By incorporating chases, construction professionals can conceal and protect essential components of the electrical and plumbing systems, thus maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the walls while facilitating easy access for maintenance and repairs.
What is chasing walls?
Chasing walls refers to the process of using a wall chaser to cut precise channels in solid structures like brick, stone, or concrete. This task is commonly undertaken by professionals such as electricians and plumbers who need to conceal wires or pipes within the walls for a cleaner and more organized appearance. By creating narrow channels, the wall chaser allows these tradespeople to seamlessly integrate their installations into the structure, giving the illusion that the wires and pipes are hidden away, enhancing both the aesthetic and functionality of the wall.
What is a chase in a brick wall?
A chase in a brick wall refers to the process of creating recesses or channels within the masonry or concrete structure to accommodate pipelines and conduits. This technique, known as electrical chasing, involves cutting proper channels in the walls, floor, or ceiling to house the necessary pipe work. These chases are designed to ensure that the electrical components and conduits are properly installed within the building structure, allowing for safe and efficient distribution of electrical systems. Ultimately, chases play a vital role in seamlessly integrating electrical infrastructure into the overall design of the brick wall, enhancing both functionality and safety.
What is a mechanical chase?
A mechanical chase refers to a significant aperture within the attic plane, specifically designed to accommodate the passage of ducts, pipes, or clusters of wires from the living area to the attic region. These chases ensure a seamless integration of various essential systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical, between the living space and the attic. By providing a designated pathway, mechanical chases facilitate the efficient movement and connection of these vital components, enabling smoother operation and maintenance of the home’s infrastructure.