Glaziers install windows and mirrors in homes and other buildings. They may install new glass or repair broken panes.
Glaziers prefer to cut glass in the shop rather than at the job site. Glaziers put uncut glass on a cutting table and measure the cutting line. They use a glass-cutting tool with a hard wheel to mark the cut line. By pressing the cutter's wheel firmly on the glass, glaziers cut (score) into the surface of the glass. By pressing on the shorter end of the glass, glaziers break it along the score line. Once the glass is cut, glaziers may cut and apply anti-glare film to reduce glare.
Transporting cut glass to the work site takes care. Glaziers use a delivery truck designed to safely transport glass. They use suction cups to move it to the truck. If the glass is large, glaziers use a crane to load it onto a truck. When they transport mirrors, glaziers cover them with protective coverings so they are not damaged. At the job site, glaziers unload the glass and equipment they will need for installation.
To install mirrors, glaziers cut and attach mounting strips or moldings to the wall. They use a plumb-line and level to make sure everything is lined up correctly. They secure the mirror with metal clips, moldings, bolts, or other devices.
To install a pane of glass, glaziers put the glass on a bed of putty to hold the glass in the frame. They secure the glass with clips or bolts. The process for installing large panes of glass is somewhat different. Glaziers screw molding into place and place the glass up against it. They attach face molding and corner pieces to firmly hold the glass in place.
Glaziers sometimes install glass doors. In addition to cutting the glass, they must install the hinges and handles on the door and attach the door to the wall. Those who install glass doors wired for security need to know about electronics.
Some glaziers specialize in installing stained glass, while others install panels on refrigerated display cases. Others work in factories installing glass in products such as doors and china cabinets.