22/09/2026
What do all these words actually mean?
Let’s translate some contractor language.
➕SCREED
This is the layer applied over the concrete floor to create the correct level before installing your final flooring.
➕CHASING
When the contractor cuts a narrow channel into a wall or floor to run electrical cables or plumbing pipes that’s chasing.
➕HACKING
You’ll hear this one a lot on renovation sites. Hacking basically means breaking and removing an existing finish like old tiles, flooring or plaster.
➕CORE CUTTING
This means creating a precise circular opening through concrete or a wall, usually to allow pipes, ducts or other services to pass through.
➕SHAFT
A vertical space inside the building used to carry services between floors such as plumbing pipes, drainage or ventilation.
➕DUCT
This is the channel that carries air through your AC or ventilation system.
➕BULKHEAD
A lowered section of the ceiling, often created to conceal AC ducts, pipes or other services.
And finally…
➕ACCESS PANEL.
That little door you sometimes don’t want to see in your beautiful ceiling? Unfortunately, sometimes we need it! It allows access to hidden AC, plumbing or electrical services for future maintenance.
So next time your contractor says,
“We need chasing here, a bulkhead there, and access for the duct…”
You’ll actually know what they’re talking about.
Welcome to the renovation dictionary.
Save this for your next site meeting.
