What Does a Glazier Do?

Glaziers install, repair and remove glass fixtures on a work site. These could include doors, windows or display cases for commercial projects. They might also work on shower doors, skylights or decorative room dividers in residential applications. Glaziers are trained by trade schools or through union contractor apprenticeship programs. They earn an average annual salary of about $72,000.

Some of the highest-paying glaziers work in the specialized area of construction projects that require high-rise buildings, such as office buildings or skyscrapers. They are able to command higher salaries because they have additional skills that make their work more demanding and complex. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 4% growth in employment for glaziers through 2031.

To become a glazier, a high school diploma or GED certificate is needed. Glaziers can go on to learn the trade through an apprenticeship program, which usually lasts four years. This training combines 144 hours of technical education with 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job experience each year. Students that successfully complete the apprenticeship program are considered journeymen and can start their own businesses or work for established companies.

A glazier needs to have the ability to read and interpret blueprints in order to determine the best shape, size and color of the glass or glass substitute they are going to use for each project. They also need to be able to lift and hold heavy pieces of glass for long periods of time while installing or repairing them. They often need to use blots, screws and putty to secure the pieces of glass in place. They are also responsible for loading their tools and materials onto trucks before heading to a job site.

Glaziers are a highly-skilled group of workers who prioritize safety in their work, adhering to industry standards and guidelines. They are also required to possess a strong sense of pride and a desire to provide quality workmanship to their customers. A glazier’s tools include a tape measure, a pry bar and hex keys. The hex keys allow the glazier to tighten or loosen a screw without having to remove a whole piece of glass and then put it back in.

A good glazier can take any kind of glass and transform it into a functional fixture that meets their customer’s specifications. The best ones will be able to visualize the finished product and can follow plans precisely, no matter how complicated they may seem. They should be able to communicate effectively with their customers as well as other members of the crew and will always keep up with new developments in the industry. A glazier should also be familiar with all types of building code regulations and safety procedures. A strong knowledge of glass manufacturing and cutting techniques is essential as well. This can be found in a textbook or online, and can be learned through on-the-job training as well. Having an understanding of the entire process is what sets a glazier apart from other trade professionals.

source https://murphyglassandmirror.wordpress.com/2023/08/03/what-does-a-glazier-do/