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This comparison covers two of the most common methods for electrical wiring in buildings. Here is a detailed comparison of the Casing/Capping system and the Concealed Conduit system based on your specified criteria.
| Basis of Comparison | Casing/Capping Wiring System | Concealed Conduit Wiring System |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 1. Look / Aesthetics | Poor / Functional. The plastic strips are visible on the surface of the walls and ceilings. This can disrupt the décor and provides a less clean, somewhat dated look. | Excellent / Premium. The wires and conduits are completely hidden inside the walls. This provides a clean, smooth, and modern finish to the interior, with only the switchboards and outlets visible. |
| 2. Cost | Low. The material (PVC casing) is inexpensive, and the labor cost is significantly lower as it does not require cutting into walls (chasing) or re-plastering. Installation is fast and simple. | High. The material (conduits, especially metal) is more expensive. Labor costs are very high due to the need for chasing walls, laying conduits, and then re-plastering and finishing the surface. |
| 3. Life / Durability | Moderate. The exposed PVC casing can become brittle and yellow over time, especially if exposed to sunlight. It is vulnerable to physical damage from impact, which can crack or break the casing. | Very High / Long. The conduits are protected within the wall structure (plaster and brick/concrete), making them safe from physical damage and environmental factors. This system has a very long lifespan. |
| 4. Safety | Good, but vulnerable. It is safe from electric shock as the wires are enclosed in PVC. However, if the casing is damaged or broken, the wires could become exposed. The PVC material is combustible and can contribute to fire spread. | Excellent. This is the safest method. Wires are protected by a conduit and then further by the wall itself, minimizing the risk of accidental contact, damage, and fire. Using metal conduits offers superior fire resistance. The main risk is accidentally drilling into a hidden wire. |
| 5. Retentivity of Material (Protection of Wires) | Moderate. The casing protects the wires from dust and humidity to an extent. However, it offers poor protection against physical impact, rodents, or severe dampness. The integrity of the wire insulation can be compromised if the casing breaks. | Excellent. The conduits provide robust mechanical protection to the wires inside from impact, compression, and rodents (especially metal conduits). The system provides excellent protection against moisture if installed correctly, preserving the wire insulation for decades. |
| 6. Suitability for Locations | Best for:
• Offices, workshops, and garages.
• Retrofitting or adding new wiring points in an existing building.
• Temporary installations.
• Low-budget projects where aesthetics are not a priority. | Best for:
• New residential construction (homes, apartments).
• Hotels, hospitals, and high-end commercial spaces.
• Locations where a clean, premium look is essential.
• Permanent, long-term installations. |
The choice between casing/capping and concealed wiring depends heavily on the project's budget, aesthetic goals, and type of construction.
Choose Casing/Capping Wiring if: You are on a tight budget, need to add wiring to an existing structure without major civil work, or if aesthetics are not your primary concern (e.g., in a workshop or storeroom). It is a practical, flexible, and affordable solution.
Choose Concealed Conduit Wiring if: You are building a new home or doing a major renovation and want the best in terms of safety, durability, and a clean, modern look. While the initial cost is high, it is a permanent, high-quality investment that adds value and safety to the property. It is the standard for modern residential and commercial construction.
