Chasing Cables: The DIY Guide to Hiding Wires Like a Pro

There comes a point in every DIYer’s life where you look around your living room, spot that jungle of wires snaking down from your TV, and think, there’s got to be a better way. And there is! It’s called chasing cables, and no, it doesn’t involve sprinting after a rogue extension lead like it’s got a mind of its own.

Whether you’re setting up a sleek new home office, wall-mounting a telly in the lounge or bedroom (this is what we did, see pic below), or just want rid of those unsightly wires trailing down your skirting boards, learning how to chase cables in wall can be a total game changer.

Let’s break down exactly what chasing cables is, why you might want to do it, how to do it safely and neatly, and what to watch out for (spoiler alert: it involves dust, drilling, and the potential for some choice words…).

What Is Cable Chasing?

Chasing cables means cutting a narrow groove (called a “chase”) into a wall so you can bury electrical cables inside and then plaster over the top for a clean finish.

It’s one of those jobs that instantly elevates a room, especially if you’re sick of trailing wires ruining the vibe of your carefully curated minimalist aesthetic. (Yes, we see you, Pinterest mood board.)

There are two main types of cable chases:

• Vertical chases – usually run from a socket up to a wall-mounted TV or a ceiling light.

• Horizontal chases – run along walls to connect sockets or other electrical points.

When Would You Chase Cables in a Wall?

Here are a few scenarios where you might want to chase cables into a wall:

• Wall-mounting a TV and hiding HDMI and power cables.

• Running speaker cables for a home theatre setup.

• Creating a neater finish for home office setups.

• Adding sockets or light switches in more convenient places.

• Rewiring part of your home as part of a bigger renovation project.

Basically, if you want wires hidden and you’re working with solid walls (usually brick or concrete), chasing cables is a go-to method.

Can I Chase Cables Myself?

Short answer? Yes – but with caution.

If you’re confident with basic tools and have some DIY experience, chasing cables can be done yourself. That said, electrics are no joke. You should always get a qualified electrician to handle any actual wiring and connections, even if you’re doing the chasing yourself.

Also, you need to comply with UK electrical regulations (BS 7671) – so make sure any chased cables are run in permitted zones and protected properly (more on that in a moment).

What You’ll Need to Chase Cables

Let’s talk gear. Here’s what you’ll need to chase cables like a true DIY champion:

• Pencil and spirit level – to mark your chase line.

• Wall chaser or angle grinder – the big guns for cutting your groove.

• Hammer and bolster chisel – to knock out the channel.

• Vacuum or dust sheets – because, oh yes, it’s going to get dusty.

• PVC capping or conduit – to protect the cables inside the chase.

• Cable detector – to check you’re not about to drill through something you really shouldn’t.

• Plaster/filler – to patch things up afterwards.

Need tools? Try Screwfix or Toolstation – both offer click and collect, and they’re lifesavers for last-minute weekend DIY dashes.

Step-by-Step: How to Chase Cables in a Wall

1. Plan and mark your cable route

Use a spirit level and pencil to mark exactly where you want to run your cable. Stick to safe zones:

• Vertically above or below sockets and switches

• Horizontally in line with sockets and switches

Avoid random diagonal lines – not only do they look dodgy if revealed, they’re also not compliant with regulations.

2. Check the wall for pipes and cables

Use a cable/pipe detector to check for any existing wires or plumbing behind your chosen chase line. If in doubt – call a professional.

3. Cut the chase

Use a wall chaser (ideally with a dust extraction vacuum attached) to cut two parallel lines in the wall along your marked route. Then use a hammer and bolster to knock out the centre section.

Top tip: If you’re working with brick or breeze block, expect a workout.

4. Insert protective capping or conduit

Place your cable inside some PVC capping or conduit to protect it before plastering over. This is especially important for future safety – no one wants a cable nicked during picture hanging five years down the line.

5. Patch and finish

Use filler or plaster to cover the chase. Once it’s dry, sand it down, paint over it, and admire your now wire-free walls.

Cup of tea and a biscuit well earned.

Safety and Regs: What You Should Know

In the UK, cable chasing falls under Part P of the Building Regulations, which covers electrical safety in dwellings. If you’re touching electrical circuits, always hire a Part P registered electrician to check or carry out the work.

Also:

• Don’t chase too deep. Max depth for a chase in brick is 1/3 of the wall thickness.

• Don’t chase horizontally for too long. It weakens the wall structurally.

• Don’t bury cables directly in plaster. Use conduit or capping.

• Use RCD protection. For extra safety, especially with power sockets.

Alternatives to Chasing Cables

Not keen on power tools or creating dust that’ll linger for months? Here are some easier alternatives:

• Trunking – plastic cable covers that run along the surface of the wall. Available in paintable finishes, they’re not as sleek as chased cables but get the job done.

• Decorative cable clips or covers – sometimes leaning into the cable aesthetic (especially with fabric-wrapped flexes) can be surprisingly stylish.

• Skirting board concealment – tuck cables behind or inside modified skirting boards for a neat finish.

Style Tip: Pair With a Feature Wall

If you’re already chasing cables to wall-mount a telly or set up a home cinema, why not make a feature of the wall itself? Try:

• A reclaimed wood cladding panel from B&Q

• A bold wallpaper from Graham & Brown

• Sleek dark paint from Farrow & Ball

Once those wires are hidden, the possibilities are endless.

FAQs About Chasing Cables

Can I chase cables in a stud wall?

Technically, you don’t need to chase stud walls – you can thread cables through the gaps between the studs (if they’re not filled with insulation). You’ll still need to drill neat holes and follow safe cable routes.

Can I chase cables into a concrete wall?

Yes, but it’s harder work! You’ll need an SDS drill or heavy-duty wall chaser. Consider trunking if you don’t fancy battling reinforced concrete.

How deep should a cable chase be?

Chases should not exceed 1/3 of the wall’s thickness vertically and 1/6 horizontally. For standard internal walls, aim for a depth of 25mm.

Do I need to use conduit or capping?

Yes – for safety and compliance, always use PVC capping or conduit. It protects the cable from damage and makes future maintenance easier.

Do I need an electrician?

Yes – always get an electrician to carry out or sign off any electrical work. You can do the chasing, but don’t mess with wiring unless you’re qualified.

Can I chase cables behind a radiator?

You can – but be extra cautious. Use a detector to check for hidden pipes first, and consider removing the radiator temporarily for easier access.

Chasing cables might sound a bit intense at first, but it’s one of those home improvement tasks that offers major aesthetic rewards. A wall free of wires instantly looks more polished, more modern – and frankly, less like a scene from The IT Crowd.

With the right tools, a bit of elbow grease, and some smart planning, you can easily chase cables in wall and transform your space into a clean, clutter-free zone.

Just remember – safety first. And if you’re ever in doubt, a quick call to a local electrician (or a cheeky visit to Screwfix for advice) can save you a world of hassle.

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