Glaziers

Nature of work

Glaziers cut, fit, install and replace glass in residential, commercial and industrial buildings, on exterior walls of buildings and other structures and in furniture and other products. They are employed by construction glass installation contractors, retail service and repair shops and glass fabrication shops, or they may be self-employed.

Job duties

Glaziers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Read and interpret blueprints and specifications to determine type and thickness of glass, frame, installation procedure and materials required.
• Measure and mark glass and cut glass using glass cutters or computerized cutter.
• Tint glass and create patterns on glass by etching, sandblasting or painting designs.
• Assemble, erect and dismantle scaffolds, rigging and hoisting equipment.
• Position glass panes into frames and secure glass using clips, points or mouldings.
• Assemble and install prefabricated glass, mirrors or glass products on walls, ceilings or exteriors of building.
• Fabricate metal frames for glass installation.
• Install, fit, fabricate and attach architectural metals or related substitute products in commercial and residential buildings.
• Install pre-cut mirrors and opaque and transparent glass panels in frames to form exterior walls of buildings.
• Replace glass in furniture and other products.
• Prepare and install skylights, showcases and aquariums and stained or other special glass in churches, museums, sports and other establishments.
• Repair and service residential windows, commercial aluminum doors and other glass supporting structures, and replace damaged glass or faulty sealant.
• May prepare cost estimates for customers or clients.

Sample job titles

• apprentice glazier
• glass and metal mechanic
• glass installer-glazier
• glass worker
• glazier
• glazier and metal mechanic
• structural glass installer

Skills

To work in this trade you should have physical stamina, agility, and coordination, and be capable of climbing, reaching, crouching, and handling heavy materials. While most of the work is done indoors, you must be willing to work outdoors and at heights. You must be able to perform basic mathematical calculations and read blueprints and drafting specifications.

Job requirements

• Completion of high school is usually required.
• Completion of a three- or four-year apprenticeship program or a combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in glazing is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
• Trade certification for glaziers is available, but voluntary, in Nova Scotia.
• Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) is also available to qualified glaziers upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.

Other considerations

Jobs in the construction industry are strongly affected by seasonal changes and general economic conditions, and many are on a project basis. As a result, workers in these jobs should be prepared for periods of unemployment. The physical demands of this work may make it difficult for people to stay in these jobs for a long time. Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.

Regulations

Contacts

glazier and metal mechanic

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