A Glazier measures, handles, cuts, prepares, installs and repairs all types of glass, mirrors and glass substitutes, typically in buildings or on the exterior walls of buildings. Glazier is a nationally designated trade under the Inter-provincial Red Seal program.(Find out about Red Seal in the Trades Lingo section.)



What do these workers do?
(Source: BC Work Futures)

Glass is widely used in modern architecture and glaziers are called on to do a lot of different tasks:

Cut and bevel glass plate. This requires special tools and a knowledge of how glass breaks in different circumstances.

Read and interpret blueprints. Glaziers read blueprints to find out which types and sizes of glass are needed, draw up a materials list and create a workplan for the installation.

Make support framing. On some jobs, the glazier makes the metal framework that supports plate glass and installs railings and other structural details that support glass.

Build and dismantle scaffolding. Glaziers often work high above the ground on scaffolding. Glaziers often set up and take down their own scaffolding, which requires attention to safety regulations.

Etch and tint glass. Glaziers apply special effects to glass, such as tint coatings or etched patterns, for decoration or privacy.

Prefabricate and fit glass panels and windows. Sometimes glaziers work in factories where they make framed windows that are ready for installation on the construction site. Glaziers may also work alongside cabinetmakers, fitting glass into furniture.

Install mirrors and showcases. Glaziers install large mirrors and custom showcases, using special techniques to minimize breakage.

Prepare cost estimates and sales. Glaziers who work as independent contractors have to prepare cost estimates and explain their services to potential customers.

Use a computer layout program. Efficient use of material and precision fits in the finished project can be achieved by using computer layouts.

Read the full Glazier Profile (60kb pdf).

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