Glazier Course

Lesson 1 • History and Scope of Glazing

Traces glazing from ancient flat glass to modern curtain walls. Contextualizes the trade's economic role and career pathways available to glaziers.

Lesson 2 • Workplace Safety Fundamentals

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

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

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

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

Lesson 2 • Straight-Line Cutting Methods

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

Lesson 3 • Shape and Pattern Cutting

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

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

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

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

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

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 • Aluminum Frame Systems

Covers storefront, curtain wall, and window wall aluminum extrusion systems. Students learn component identification, assembly sequencing, and anchor attachment.

Lesson 2 • Reading Glazing Shop Drawings

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

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

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

Lesson 1 • Weatherproofing and Final Inspection

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

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

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

Lesson 4 • Residential Door Glazing

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

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

Lesson 2 • Handling Large Glass Units on Site

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

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

Lesson 4 • Storefront Installation Sequence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 4 • Defect Remediation Techniques

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