Being a craftsman is an exciting career path that offers a high degree of satisfaction. This job is perfect for someone who likes to work with their own hands while helping others. One type of craftsman that many are unfamiliar with is the glassmaker. If you are interested in glasswork, this could be a good career for you. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about a glazier, including what they do.
What Is A Glazier?
A glazier is a craftsman who works with glass and glass substitutes. Glaziers are responsible for cutting, installing and removing all types of glass, including installing glass in windows, doors, displays, storefronts, skylights, etc. It may also be necessary to install mounting wings or mouldings and secure them with various fasteners. Those who enjoy being creative with their hands may also be interested in this career path.
It takes a lot of physical strength to become a glass craftsman. Glassmakers have to lift heavy loads and often work outdoors. They also need to be brave and confident as they have to work several stories in the air and have to use ladders and scaffolds regularly to get the job done. This requires the ability to stand, sit, kneel, and squat for long periods of time.
What Does A Glazier Do?
If you are interested in becoming a glassmaker, below is a list of the most common daily tasks.
Consultation With Customers
Before work begins, the glassmaker should take the time to meet with each client to understand their needs. From there, you can present the customer with options and develop a plan to fix any necessary issues.
Remove The Glass
Glaziers are responsible for cutting and removing existing glass before installing new glass.
Choose The Material
Each job is different, and the glassmaker must determine the best material to complete each job.
Replace The Glass
Glaziers are responsible for cutting, fitting, installing and repairing glass and glass replacements in a variety of fixtures and locations. Installation of metal and other
Scaffolding
Glaziers may need to install pre-assembled metal or wood frames for doors and windows before installing the glass.
Read And Interpret Blueprints
A glassmaker must be able to read and interpret blueprints to determine the optimal size, shape, colour and thickness of glass or glass substitute materials.
Travel
Unless working as a member of her team, the glazier is often responsible for carrying all the necessary materials to each job site.
Safe Glass
Glaziers are responsible for lifting and securing glass and glass substitutes using dabbing, screws, putty, and cement.
Conclusion
Like many other construction industries, this job is physically demanding. The glassmaker spends most of the day standing, bending and stretching. Workers often have to lift and manipulate heavy and cumbersome materials such as large sheets of glass. Most glassmakers work full-time. The glassmaker is one of the professions with the highest rate of injury and illness. Typical injuries include lacerations from tools and glass and fall from ladders and scaffolding.