Introduction

Concrete chase planing might not be a term you’re familiar with, but it plays a crucial role in construction and engineering. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just someone curious about the world of construction, understanding concrete chase planing can offer insights into the intricate processes that ensure safe and efficient structures. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the art and science of concrete chase planing, exploring its definition, purpose, techniques, and significance in the world of construction.

Defining Concrete Chase Planing

Concrete chase planing is a specialized construction technique that involves creating grooves, trenches, or channels in concrete surfaces to accommodate various utilities, pipes, conduits, or services. These services can include electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The term “chase” refers to the space or pathway created within the concrete where these utilities are routed, allowing them to be concealed within the structure while remaining accessible for maintenance or repairs.

The Purpose and Importance

The primary purpose of concrete chase planing is to ensure that a building’s utilities are seamlessly integrated into its structure without compromising its aesthetic appeal, functionality, or structural integrity. By creating designated pathways within the concrete, builders can avoid surface-mounted conduits that might disrupt the visual appeal of the space. Moreover, chase planing helps prevent potential damage to utilities from accidental impacts or environmental factors.

Techniques and Process

Concrete chase planing involves a series of steps that require precision and careful planning. Here’s an overview of the typical process:

1. Design and Layout: Engineers and architects collaborate to design the layout of utilities and determine the required chases’ dimensions and locations. This step ensures that the utilities are effectively distributed throughout the structure.
2. Marking and Preparation: Once the design is finalized, the construction team marks the positions of the chases on the concrete surfaces. This step involves accurately measuring and marking the areas to be excavated.
3. Excavation: Using specialized tools such as diamond-tipped saws, jackhammers, or routers, construction professionals carefully remove the designated portions of the concrete surface. The depth and width of the chase depend on the size of the utilities being installed.
4. Utility Installation: With the chases prepared, utilities like pipes, conduits, or wiring are installed within the grooves. These utilities are secured in place to prevent shifting or damage.
5. Covering and Finishing: Once the utilities are in place, the chases are covered with materials that match the surrounding concrete surface, maintaining the overall aesthetics of the space. This step might involve applying concrete patching materials or decorative finishes.

Significance in Construction

Concrete chase planing holds several benefits for both construction professionals and building occupants:

1. Aesthetics: By concealing utilities within chases, the visual appeal of interior spaces is preserved, creating a clean and seamless environment.
2. Safety: Utilities housed within chases are less susceptible to damage from accidental impacts, reducing the risk of hazards and disruptions.
3. Functionality: Chase planing ensures that utilities are well-organized and efficiently distributed, optimizing the functionality of the building’s systems.
4. Maintenance and Accessibility: Chases provide convenient access for maintenance and repairs, allowing professionals to address issues without causing extensive disruptions.

But concrete chasing is not just limited to inside a building. Our concrete chaser can be used outside to add texture to cow shed floors, add slip resistance to boat ramps and add decorative or functional texture around pools.

Conclusion

Concrete chase planing is a testament to the intricate balance between aesthetics, functionality, and structural integrity in construction. By seamlessly integrating utilities within concrete surfaces, this technique contributes to safe, efficient, and visually appealing buildings. The next time you step into a well-designed space, take a moment to appreciate the hidden complexity of concrete chase planing that makes it all possible.

Feel free to reach out to us to receive a complimentary quote for your planing work. Our team of representatives is readily available to assist you in Auckland, Tauranga, Rotorua, Hamilton, New Plymouth, and Wellington. You can contact us via freephone at 0508 694 746 or get in touch with Glen at 021 434 199. For those in the South Island regions like Queenstown, Wanaka, Christchurch, Lakes, and Dunedin, Mike is your dedicated point of contact, reachable at 027 755 6672. To look further into the array of services we offer, don’t hesitate to explore more on our website, theres even a short video you can watch.