What Does a Glazier Do?

Glaziers are skilled workers who specialize in the work with glass. They install, cut and repair glass for window frames, showers and bathtubs, aswell for display cases, commercial structures and other business or home structures.

The path to a career as glaziers usually begins by completing an apprenticeship that gives you on-the-job training and pay. Then, after completing the training, you can become a journeyman glazier.

Job Dossiers

Glaziers install, repair and replace glass windows, doors, skylights and other fixtures in buildings. They follow plans, cut and adjust glass to dimensions, and secure it with sashes and moldings. They also use sealants to stop air infiltration and water leaks. This is a skilled craft which is ideal for those who are detail-oriented and physically fit. Glaziers need to be able to balance themselves on ladders and scaffolding.

Glaziers may have to fabricate specific pieces in their workshops, depending on the type and size of glass to be installed. Then, they load them onto trucks to be delivered to the site of work. Glaziers mark lines and determine patterns or lines prior to cutting glass on the job site. They also remove existing broken glass and prepare the area for a new installation. Glaziers then apply mastic putty, paste or bolts to ensure that the glass is securely installed. When they're finished they clean up the work site.

The formal training for glaziers typically lasts for four years and requires 144 hours of technical education and 220 hours of paid on-the job training. After completing the program Glaziers are considered to be journeymen and can perform independently. Foremen can be promoted from journeymen who have excellent mechanical skills. They are also adept at laying materials out and coordinating labor team and have excellent people abilities.

A job as a glazier requires physical stamina and good hand-eye coordination to accurately cut glass in the field. They need to be able to lift heavy pieces glass and then hold them in place until they are secured. Glaziers should also be capable of working outdoors in adverse weather conditions.

To construct building projects, glaziers work with other professionals in the trade like steel fixers, wall and floor tilers. They also collaborate with engineers, architects and project managers. Glaziers who are adept in interpreting construction and architectural blueprints are in high demand.

Glaziers who want to become glaziers typically have "Building" and "Organizing" interests as per Holland Code assessments. They are enthusiastic about working with their hands and fixing things and also creating and arranging information in structured systems. They should be able to analyse and read data and communicate effectively with coworkers and customers.

Education and Training Requirements

Glaziers must possess the equivalent of a high school diploma or equivalent, and they learn their trade through a three or four-year apprenticeship. A few organizations sponsor apprenticeship programs for glaziers, such as several union and contractor associations. Apprentices begin as helpers and move up the ranks until they are journey workers who can do tasks on their own. Contact your state to determine if they require the glazier's license.


Glaziers need to have several skills to do their job, such as balance, manual dexterity and physical strength to lift large glass panes and eye-hand coordination in order to cut precise measurements. They must also be able to solve arithmetic problems quickly and precisely. Glaziers typically have to work at high altitudes. They should have good balance and be able to use scaffolds and ladders. They should also be able to read blueprints and know how to operate hand tools.

Most Glaziers work for construction and special fenestration firms, but they may also work for themselves. They are often required to travel to various construction projects to complete assignments. They usually work full-time but may have to accept the requirement of working overtime for projects with tight deadlines.

Certain glaziers are certified by professional organizations like the National Glass Association, which offers the Certified Glazier (CGI) certification to glaziers who have at minimum two years of industry experience. This certification can boost your job opportunities and show employers that you are dedicated to high-quality workmanship and safety standards in the industry.

Other qualifications include having a valid driving license and a clean driving record and the ability to pass a background investigation. You must also be able to read blueprints, and have the ability to communicate with your supervisors as well as other team members. Sign up for an account with SkillHero Account to explore the possibilities of apprenticeship and training. The free app also helps you create a resume that highlights your skills, education and experiences.

Work Environment

Glaziers are essential for the construction of many buildings since they install and repair glass components like windows doors, skylights mirrors, insulating panels and other architectural features. They ensure that these elements are functional while maintaining visual aesthetics and security.

Glaziers need physical stamina and strength since they spend a lot of their time on their feet. They also have to climb ladders and scaffolding and carry large sheets of glass for lengthy periods of time. They also need to be aware of safety precautions when working at heights, as falling off may result in serious injuries. It is possible to be exposed to the fumes of adhesives, sealants and chemical etching substances.

Glaziers are often asked to work on bespoke projects that demonstrate their talents as artists in the field. These projects may include constructing customized window displays for restaurants to intricately etching patterns on doors made of glass. These bespoke projects offer a unique chance for glaziers who can combine aesthetic appeal with practical aesthetics. They are a crucial element of the building construction and interior design industries.

Glaziers have a high degree of job satisfaction as their work is both rewarding and challenging. The majority of glaziers love working with real-world materials as well as practical tasks. They are more likely to have an interest in building and organizing in accordance with the Holland Code framework. These interests indicate an interest in solving problems that require the creation of or fixing practical objects, and keeping organised records and information.

Certain glaziers specialize in specific types of glazing. While most work on residential or commercial structures, others are specialists in a specific type of glass. For commercial buildings of large size glass is insulated and specially tempered glass helps to conserve energy. Laminated glass is commonly used in homes to improve security and to prevent breakage. Other glaziers specialize in custom-made glass pieces for buildings or vehicles that require more intricate designs and a higher level of craftsmanship.

The demand for glaziers is expected to rise slightly in the coming decade as architects look to incorporate more energy-efficient glass into new buildings as well as existing ones are upgraded, according to Labor Finders. Apprenticeship opportunities are available, as well as entry-level positions for people who have not yet completed formal education.

Salary

Glaziers earn a wage that is above average for occupations in the construction industry. Their pay can vary depending on the state in which they reside, however. Glaziers can work full-time or part time, and they often learn through on-the job training. They may also decide to become self-employed and bid on jobs via a specialized job site similar to freelancers from other industries.

Glaziers are skilled craftsmen who specialize in working with glass, often in high places. They are responsible for cutting, measuring and installing glass within structures such as window frames, skylights, display cases, showers and bathtubs. People who choose this career path could be employed by independent contractors or larger construction companies.

They also measure materials and interpret blueprints to help them plan their installation. They need excellent vision and hand-eye coordination and the ability to lift heavy objects. Despite these physical demands, glaziers generally enjoy their work and are content with their income.

The progression of a career for Glaziers can be swift when they are capable of quickly learning their trade through on-the job training. You can acquire the necessary skills through an apprenticeship or a vocational school. Many glaziers are self-employed, and can set their own schedules and set their own rate of pay.

Because they work with such a vital building material, glaziers need to be able to solve problems in difficult situations. They often work on high-rise buildings, so they need to be able to maneuver in tight spaces and utilize sophisticated equipment to finish their work.

Glaziers are often faced with extreme weather conditions while they are on the job such as rain and snow. This can make their work more difficult, and they must be able to adapt quickly to weather conditions that change.

In 2022, the wage GINI coefficient for Glaziers was 0.31 which is less than the national average of 0.478. This means that the wages of Glaziers are distributed more evenly across all industries than the national average. Window Glazier and Glazing is a positive signal for those looking to get into the career.