Becoming a Glazier

A glazier works with glass and glass substitute products. They are responsible for cutting, installing and removing glass in houses, commercial buildings, storefronts and skylights. They refer to blueprints in order to figure out the size, shape and location of the glass that is required for a project. Other responsibilities include installing sashes and moldings, and fastening panes into frames with a variety of different types of hardware.

The minimum requirements to become a glazier include a high school diploma or GED certificate. Glaziers often attend trade schools or apprenticeship programs that are offered by unions, contractors and technical schools. These programs typically last for about four years and help apprentices gain practical experience working with professionals in the field. They are also required to complete 2,000 hours of union-mandated on-the-job training each year in order to earn their journeyman status.

Applicants for the profession should be detail-oriented, physically strong and have good balance and hand-eye coordination. They should be able to work on their feet all day and lift heavy glass items. Glaziers often need to use ladders and scaffolding in order to work on high-rise buildings, so they must be comfortable completing their job several stories in the air.

Glaziers will also need a variety of tools and supplies, including glass snips that can cut tiny pieces of glass without breaking or cracking them. They will also need a tape measure in order to ensure that their cuts are precise. A hammer that is specifically designed for glaziers is a must-have tool, and these specialized hammers will usually have a wooden or metal handle.

Other essential tools include a pair of pliers and a glass drill. These specialized tools allow glaziers to create precise holes for mounting hardware. They can also be used for sizing and cutting glass to fit into place. A glazier will also need a suction lifter in order to hold large sheets of glass while they are being installed. These tools can come in a variety of sizes and weight capacities, so glaziers should choose the one that best fits their needs.

Lastly, glaziers will need to have a pair of eye protection, as they will be exposed to dangerous materials and chemicals when working with glass. A pair of safety glasses or goggles will protect their eyes from dust, debris and other harmful substances. A good glazier will also have a good pair of gloves, as they may need to touch a variety of sharp objects throughout the day. They will also need a bucket to collect the debris that is collected throughout the process.

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