Glaziers measure, handle, cut, prepare, fit, install, replace and repair all types of glass and glass substitutes, typically in commercial, residential and transportation applications. In commercial applications, they fabricate and install curtain wall framing, aluminium storefront frames and entrances, structural silicone glazing (SSG), skylights and sloped glazing. In residential applications, they install doors and windows. In transportation applications, glaziers repair and replace glass products.
Glaziers also install specialty glass products such as glass railings, smoke baffles, shower enclosures, and glass and mirror walls. Other duties include layout, preparation, fabrication and replacement of architectural metal components in systems such as entranceways, windows, skylights and curtain walls.
Most glaziers work on construction or renovation projects. Others may work in specialized fields, such as replacing windows and windshields in vehicles, or installing skylights and other special glassworks in churches, museums and other establishments. Glaziers are employed by construction glass installation contractors, fabrication shops, retail service and repair shops. They may also be self-employed.
Besides working with glass, glaziers also work with plastics, granite, and other similar materials used as glass substitutes, as well as films or laminates that improve the durability or safety of the glass. Glaziers are also involved in manufacturing display cabinets and decorative windows. They may also be requested to create custom-designed glass installations for residential and commercial use.
Glaziers require good reading, writing and verbal communication skills, as well as mathematical ability to accomplish tasks within their trade. Physical strength and stamina are necessary to work with heavy glass materials, and good eyesight is needed to measure, cut and detect flaws in glass and other materials. Manual dexterity and the ability to work alone and in teams are important qualities for those working in this trade. As well, analytical ability and troubleshooting skills are important assets in this trade, especially in the context of renovation and repair projects involving older structures and products.
Glaziers work in a variety of environments; some work outdoors on construction sites while others work indoors, in shops. When working on commercial applications, glaziers are expected to work from man-lift mobile equipment, scaffolds and swing stages, sometimes at great heights, to manoeuvre glass panels that are lifted by cranes and other lifting equipment. Glaziers do a considerable amount of bending, kneeling, lifting, and standing during the installation process. There are some risks of injuries from lifting heavy materials, repetitive actions, sharp edges and broken glass.
This Occupational Analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of carpenters, roofers, bricklayers, tilesetters, ironworkers and motor vehicle body repairers.
With experience, glaziers may act as mentors and trainers to apprentices in the trade. Glaziers may advance to supervisory positions such as foremen or contract managers, or set up their own shops.
For more information, see Red Seal Trades – Glazier
