To safely and aesthetically distribute wires and pipes in buildings, they are often hidden in special recesses and grooves in the walls. Special power tools are used to create such grooves. The tool of choice is, of course, a wall chaser, but there are also practical alternatives to this tool. We suggest what to use instead of a wall chaser.
Check wall chasers at Onninen warehouse
Wall Chaser – what is it used for and can it be replaced?
Wall chasers are specialized power tools equipped with two parallel blades, usually with a diamond coating. They are used for grooving, which means precisely creating longitudinal channels in walls, ceilings, or floors made of hard materials. In such prepared grooves, cables, rails, or installation pipes can be safely and discreetly routed.
Specialists engaged in grooving most often use wall chasers. However, in some installation situations, a wall chaser can be replaced or its functionality expanded by using other power tools. There are many alternatives to choose from: from routers, through multifunctional tools, to grinders. Practical groove-free systems are also gaining popularity.
What to use instead of a wall chaser? Proven alternatives
Multifunctional tools
A multifunctional tool is a practical and compact solution, ideally suited for various construction and renovation tasks. Thanks to interchangeable attachments, it can be used for many tasks: cutting (including plunge cutting), sanding, routing, polishing, trimming to size, scraping, or drilling. Wide adjustment options provide precise control over the tool while performing various activities. Multifunctional tools successfully replace wall chasers during minor electrical or plumbing work – especially in hard-to-reach places.
Angle grinders
For grooving in concrete, professionals often use angle grinders – necessarily with high power. These are affordable and versatile power tools. They allow not only for creating grooves but also for performing many other tasks. However, grooving with an angle grinder usually takes longer than with a wall chaser, especially for long runs, as two almost identical cuts must be made parallel to each other, and then the grooves must be cleaned. Additionally, 
the grinder generates a large amount of dust.
Routers
Routers are another practical alternative to wall chasers. They allow for precise cutting of grooves in concrete and other hard materials. They enable the creation of even grooves for demanding installations. Modern models guarantee not only fast but also clean cutting of recesses – with minimal dust.
Groove-free systems
If for some reason it is not possible to chisel walls, e.g., your client prefers to avoid a major renovation, choose the optimal groove-free solution for the situation. Effective hiding of wires or pipes indoors can be achieved using, among others, masking strips, cable channels, and special furniture. Some installations can be routed under floor panels or suspended ceilings. In rooms designed in an industrial or loft style, it is worth making original decorations from the installation elements left in view.
Important health and safety tips for grooving specialists
When grooving, regardless of the tools used, it is important to remember to follow safety and hygiene rules. First of all, the operator should have the appropriate training and experience, especially when operating advanced wall chasers, routers, and angle grinders. It is also necessary to use personal protective equipment: a helmet, safety glasses, dust masks, and gloves. The power tools used should be technically sound and have the necessary certifications, and all shields and dust extraction systems must be properly installed. Work should be carried out in well-ventilated rooms or outdoors.
Tools for grooving at Onninen construction warehouse
We encourage professionals from the electrical, plumbing, and construction renovation industries to familiarize themselves with the offer of the Onninen tool warehouse. We have a wide range of modern power tools in our assortment. We supply wall chasers, grinders, and routers from leading Polish and foreign manufacturers.
If you need help selecting power tools for grooving, Onninen specialists are available for advice.
FAQ
1. Can a multifunctional tool replace a wall chaser?
In many situations – absolutely. Multifunctional tools work great for creating grooves in hard materials during minor electrical or plumbing work, especially in hard-to-reach places.
2. How to reduce dust during grooving?
Dust shields and extraction systems should be used.
3. Can an angle grinder be used for grooving?
Yes, but it requires great precision and the use of strong equipment equipped with diamond blades and a dust shield. It should be noted that grooving with an angle grinder usually takes longer and is more difficult.
4. When is it worth opting for a groove-free system?
When the investor wants to avoid time-consuming, invasive, and costly work, such as during minor renovations and refreshing arrangements.
5. What PPE should be used during grooving?
Safety glasses, a dust mask, gloves, and appropriate work clothing.