Glazier Course

Lesson 1 • History and Scope of Glazing

This traces glazing from ancient flat glass to modern curtain walls. It contextualises the trade's economic role and career pathways available to glaziers.

Lesson 2 • Workplace Safety Fundamentals

This introduces hazard recognition, personal protective equipment, and regulatory compliance basics. Safety culture is established as the non-negotiable foundation of all trade work.

Lesson 3 • Trade Math and Measurement Basics

This covers fractions, decimals, and unit conversions applied to glass dimensions. Accurate measurement is prerequisite to every cutting and installation task ahead.

Lesson 4 • Tools and Equipment Overview

This identifies hand tools, power tools, and lifting equipment used daily by glaziers. Proper identification precedes safe handling instruction in later sections.

Lesson 1 • Mechanical and CNC Cutting Systems

This introduces automated cutting tables and computer-controlled scoring equipment. Mechanical systems increase throughput and precision for production environments.

Lesson 2 • Straight-Line Cutting Methods

This teaches straight cuts using hand cutters and straightedge guides on annealed glass. Consistent technique is practised until dimensional accuracy meets trade standards.

Lesson 3 • Shape and Pattern Cutting

This extends cutting skills to curves, circles, and custom templates. Pattern cutting expands the glazier's capability for decorative and specialty installations.

Lesson 4 • Scoring Principles and Physics

This explains the mechanics of surface scoring and controlled fracture propagation. Understanding why glass breaks predictably underpins every cutting technique taught.

Lesson 1 • Sealant Chemistry and Selection

This compares silicone, polyurethane, and polysulfide sealants by movement capability and adhesion. Correct sealant choice is critical to joint longevity and warranty compliance.

Lesson 2 • Gaskets and Rubber Profiles

This identifies EPDM, neoprene, and silicone gasket profiles used in framed systems. Proper gasket installation ensures consistent compression and long-term weathertightness.

Lesson 3 • Sealant Application and Tooling

This teaches surface preparation, priming, gun technique, and joint tooling for professional sealant joints. Proper application prevents adhesion failure and aesthetic defects.

Lesson 4 • Setting Blocks and Shims

This explains the role of setting blocks in load transfer and glass positioning within frames. Correct block placement prevents stress fractures and long-term seal failure.

Lesson 1 • Aluminium Frame Systems

This covers storefront, curtain wall, and window wall aluminium extrusion systems. Students learn component identification, assembly sequencing, and anchor attachment.

Lesson 2 • Reading Glazing Shop Drawings

This develops ability to interpret elevations, sections, and detail drawings for glazing systems. Drawing literacy is essential before any frame layout or installation begins.

Lesson 3 • Plumb, Level, and Square Techniques

This applies layout tools and adjustment methods to achieve precise frame alignment. Misaligned frames cause glass stress, seal failure, and operational problems.

Lesson 4 • Steel and Specialty Frame Systems

This addresses steel window frames, fire-rated assemblies, and historic steel profiles. Steel systems require different fastening and sealing approaches than aluminium.

Lesson 1 • Weatherproofing and Final Inspection

This covers interior and exterior sealing, insulation, and quality checks for completed installations. Final inspection confirms performance before handover to the client.

Lesson 2 • Residential Window Types and Standards

This surveys single-hung, double-hung, casement, and fixed window configurations. Performance ratings for air, water, and structural resistance guide product selection.

Lesson 3 • Window Replacement Procedures

This teaches full-frame and insert replacement methods for existing residential windows. Minimising damage to surrounding finishes is a key skill in retrofit work.

Lesson 4 • Residential Door Glazing

This addresses glazing of entry doors, patio doors, and sidelites with safety glass requirements. Door glazing demands precise sizing and secure retention for impact resistance.

Lesson 1 • Curtain Wall System Types

This compares stick-built, unitized, and semi-unitized curtain wall systems by assembly method. System type determines site labour, crane requirements, and quality control approach.

Lesson 2 • Handling Large Glass Units on Site

This covers rigging, vacuum lifting, and crane-assisted placement of oversized glass panels. Safe handling of large units requires coordinated team procedures and equipment checks.

Lesson 3 • Curtain Wall Weatherproofing

This addresses pressure-equalised rain screen design, drainage paths, and perimeter sealing. Effective weatherproofing integrates structural, thermal, and moisture control functions.

Lesson 4 • Storefront Installation Sequence

This walks through anchor setting, frame erection, and glass installation in correct order. Sequence discipline prevents rework and ensures structural integrity of the system.

Lesson 1 • Blast and Impact Resistant Glazing

This introduces laminated and interlayer systems designed for blast mitigation and hurricane resistance. Performance testing standards and installation tolerances are more stringent than standard work.

Lesson 2 • Sloped and Overhead Glazing

This covers design considerations, drainage, and installation of sloped roof glazing and skylights. Overhead glazing requires laminated glass and positive drainage to ensure safety.

Lesson 3 • Fire-Rated Glazing Systems

This identifies fire-rated glass products and the framing systems required to maintain ratings. Substituting non-rated components voids the assembly's certification.

Lesson 4 • Structural Glass and Point Fixings

This teaches spider fitting installation, patch plate systems, and all-glass fin assemblies. Structural glass transfers loads through the glass itself, demanding precise drilling and fitting.

Lesson 1 • Glass Defect Identification

This trains systematic visual inspection for scratches, chips, optical distortion, and seal failure. Early defect identification prevents costly replacement after full installation.

Lesson 2 • Installation Quality Checks

This applies dimensional, alignment, and weathertightness checks to completed glazing work. Systematic verification catches errors before they become warranty claims.

Lesson 3 • Documentation and Compliance Records

This establishes practices for maintaining installation records, product certifications, and inspection logs. Accurate documentation supports warranty claims and regulatory audits.

Lesson 4 • Defect Remediation Techniques

This covers glass replacement, sealant removal and reapplication, and frame adjustment procedures. Efficient remediation minimises downtime and material waste on the job site.