What does a glazier do?
Glaziers work with many different types of glass for a variety of purposes. They work with glass in residential and commercial structures. Residential glaziers replace glass in windows, fit glass for tables and displays, and install glass showers, mirrors, and bathtub spaces. Commercial glaziers install heavy glass for windows, room dividers, glass panels, and displays. Some glaziers work with marble, granite, plastic, and other related materials that are used as substitutes for glass. They also install laminates and films that improve the safety and durability of glass. Glaziers put glass in place and secure it with moldings, putty, paste-like cement, mastic, metal clips, rubber gaskets, or glazing compound. Glaziers cut glass using glass cutters and a straightedge. They also use oil, suction cups, glazing knives, grinders, saws, and drills. Some also use computers to improve their techniques and reduce the amount of glass that is wasted.
What kind of training does a glazier need?
Glaziers usually gain their skills through on the job training. Some complete formal training or apprenticeship programs. Generally 3 years of classroom instruction and on the job training is required to become a skilled glazier. Many aspiring glaziers attend community colleges or vocational and technical schools. Students usually receive instruction on blueprint reading, glass and installation techniques, general construction methods, safety practices, basic mathematics, and first aid. Some employers offer formal apprenticeships that combine classroom instruction and paid practical experience. Glaziers usually begin their careers completing simple tasks and move on to more advanced work as they gain experience.
What are the prospects for a career as a glazier?
Employment of glaziers is expected to grow about as fast as average for all professions, increasing 12% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The increase in residential and nonresidential construction will drive job growth.
Job prospects are expected to be good especially for glaziers with a wide range of skills. Some job openings will arise from the need to replace glaziers who retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do glaziers make?
As of November 2009, the middle 50% of glaziers earn annual salaries between $31,155 and $45,240. The top 10% earn annual salaries of more than $52,178 (2).
A career as a glazier is a great choice for individuals with a strong interest in installing glass for a variety of reasons. Glaziers must have good physical fitness, eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, and good balance skills. Problem solving skills and ability to work accurately and quickly are also desirable characteristics. Glaziers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills because they frequently interact with a variety of customers and other professionals.
