glazier

A glazier is a tradesperson who works with glass in construction and related fields. They measure, cut, install, replace, and repair glass panes and assemblies such as windows, facades, mirrors, and skylights. Glaziers may specialize in residential, commercial, or automotive glazing.

In buildings, glaziers remove damaged panes, prepare frames, and install or replace glass units. They work with annealed, tempered, laminated, or insulated glass, and may fit gaskets, beads, glazing compounds, or sealants to secure and weatherproof the pane. They also install storefronts, curtain walls, and interior glass partitions.

Glazing work uses a range of tools and materials. Typical tools include glass cutters, scoring tools, straightedges, suction cups, nippers, pliers, glazing points, putty knives, and sealant guns. Materials commonly used are annealed, tempered, laminated, and insulated glass, as well as silicone or acrylic sealants and weatherstripping.

Training and certification: Most glaziers learn through apprenticeships combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction; licensing or certification requirements vary by region. Employers value spatial awareness, math skills, manual dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols. Work can involve heights, heavy lifting, and exposure to glass dust and solvents.

Industry context: Glazing work is governed by safety standards and building codes. Advances include energy-efficient glazing, tempered and laminated glass, low-emissivity coatings, and the use of insulated glass units. In restoration projects, glaziers may need to source period-appropriate glass and reproduce muntins or sash hardware.