What Does a Glazing Installer Do?
Glaziers are responsible for installing glass in a variety of settings. They may be involved in projects such as skylights, store fronts, or display cases. They also may fabricate and install metal sashes and molds. They also operate ladders, powertools, and scaffolding.
When making frames for glazing, avoid using silicone putty. This type of putty is likely to fail soon after installation and may even break the glass.
Flat glass
Glass is one of the most versatile materials used in construction and its structural properties can be altered to create a variety of types of glass suitable for use in building. Glass is a great material for a variety of purposes, including windows skylights, interior curtains doors and walls. Glass also offers many advantages like security, thermal performance, and visual aesthetics. In addition, it can be treated with various additives to alter its physical properties and make it more suitable for specific purposes.
The float process allows for the cost-effective production of flat glass with uniform thickness. This enables you to produce a wide range of glass suitable for building use, including coated and tinted glass. Flat glass is a great option for modern window systems due to its insulating properties.
Float glass is the most basic form of glazing available internationally and accounts for 90 percent of Saint Gobain's flat glass sales. Typically, the annealed float glass has a high percentage of recycled content, often between 20% and 30%, which can help reduce the environmental impact and costs. It offers a wide range of coating and finishing options that let architects and designers create unique glass designs.
Glass is a strong material, but it can crack or fracture when it is exposed to excessive stress or pressure. To prevent this from happening, the glass must be handled with care during transportation and installation in order to avoid damage to edges. GANA's Flat Glass Manual, and PPG's Technical Bulletin TD112-Handling Do's & Don'ts to Reduced Fragility describe the techniques for handling to minimize the chance of failure.
Before installing the glass the glass installer must ensure that it is in good working order. This includes ensuring that the frame is free of any dust or other foreign material that could hinder the adhesive from working effectively. The installer should also wash the surface of the glass to remove any dirt or oil. This will ensure that the adhesive is long-lasting and durable.
The glazing process should be done indoors where there is a minimum of dust. Use double glazing installations that can endure a variety of temperatures. This can be accomplished by using silicone sealant. It is especially efficient in high-rise construction or other areas that have an extensive range of temperatures.
Structural silicone
Structural silicone glazing (SSG) is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional captured systems. It enables designers to attain higher thermal efficiency and comply with strict energy standards without losing the aesthetics. It is also more durable and flexible than captured systems which means it is able to take on more dynamic loads. However, it's important to select a reliable and experienced glazing contractor when using SSG. This will ensure that the sealant is properly applied and that the glass is properly supported.
SSG requires a specific structural silicone that is specifically designed to transfer load from the glass to the frame of the building. This sealant must be able to withstand both static and dynamic load. It must also be able to withstand varying temperatures and conditions. A high-quality SSG will last for at least 30 years, but it is recommended that you examine it frequently to check for any damage or degradation.
The structural silicone should be compatible with any component including the frame and glass. It must be resistant to abrasions, water, UV rays, and extreme temperature changes. It must also have a low vapor transmission and a good adhesion with a variety materials. It should also be compatible with most metals including galvanized steel as well as aluminum and other metals.
Structural silicones are available in a variety of colors that can be used to match the project's design palette. For example, IQ uses black Dow Corning high-modulus structural silicone to create its oversized elevations that are glazed. This allows for thin joints and a sleek appearance that is in keeping with the overall design.
It is crucial to know the behavior of structural silicone under various support conditions. This is especially relevant for hung sworded or hung-sworded facade systems. It is essential to calculate the magnitude and analyze the performance of a system in order to determine the permanent stresses locked into the structural silicon. The results can be used to improve the design of future projects.
Adhesives
Adhesives are the substances used by glazing installers to secure surfaces. They come in a variety of forms, including liquids aerosols, and tapes. The strength of the adhesive is determined by its ability to form an organic bond to the surface it's being applied to. Modern adhesives are extremely durable and can be made from either natural or synthetic sources. They are available in a variety of types, including hot melt, solvent-based, and reactive.
There are two primary categories of adhesives which are structural and non-structural. The structural glues are designed to withstand the rigors of heavy loads, while non-structural glues are better suited to lighter applications. They can be classified based on their resistance to temperature and load bearing capabilities, among other characteristics. It is important to select the right adhesive for your project to ensure the safety of your project.
You can use acrylic or polymer glue depending on the project and the conditions. Acrylic adhesives are an excellent choice for a wide range of projects, because they can be used on a wide range of substrates. They have excellent tearing and flexural properties and are water-resistant. They are also extremely durable and have low compression set. Polymer glues, on other side, are more prone to heat and require particular care.
The structure and size will determine the adhesive you select. For instance, for large commercial buildings with high winds, you'll need to use a structural glazing tape. This kind of adhesive is strong enough to withstand the highest winds and achieves the highest architectural ratings for any glazing system. The best method for applying this type of adhesive is by using an automated or manual device that applies uniform pressure.
Sika offers a complete line of silicone, polyurethane, and hybrid sealants to meet any commercial glazing contractor's demands. These products are perfect for glazing contractors who require a reliable and strong adhesive for installation and weather sealing.
In addition to providing a comprehensive selection of construction adhesives, Sika also offers a wide range of glazing tools and accessories. These tools are essential to the process of glazing, and can help you finish your job in a short time. Sika glazing tools are available in a variety of tapes, brushes and caulking gun types which can be used to apply the correct amount of adhesive to your glass units.
Safety
Glaziers are responsible for a broad range of tasks in their job, from taking down and replacing damaged windows to installing shower doors and mirrors made of glass. The job requires a keen attention to details, and a proper installation is essential for both aesthetics and functionality. It is important to choose a FENSA-accredited business.
A professional glazing installer should be certified in a variety of areas, such as safety procedures, materials and tools. These skills are required to ensure the health and well-being of employees as well as reduce the chance of workplace accidents. A reputable glazing contractor has emergency plans and first-aid courses to prevent injuries.
Additionally, contractors should make sure that they are protected from workplace hazards, including heat illnesses and falling debris. These precautions include supplying personal protective equipment, making sure that the area of work is free of obstructions, as well as applying the correct lifting procedures. Also, they should ensure that all materials, particularly those used for storage and transport, are properly secured.
It is crucial that a glass business has a safety officer who can supervise their employees' safety and ensure that they are in compliance with the industry standards. The safety officer can also in educating their employees on how to identify and control possible hazards, and make sure that workers adhere to safety procedures and rules and regulations.
Glaziers are often exposed extreme weather conditions, particularly during summer. The right precautions will ensure they are safe and comfortable in these conditions, which will improve productivity and efficiency.
Safety is a vital aspect of any project, but it's more important for a glazing contractor. Safety is affected by a variety of factors, such as the weather, the use of hazardous chemicals, or the necessity to install products that pose a high risk in hazardous areas.
The fenestration industry has announced an innovative Safety Library that will serve as a home for safety resources for FGIA members. The library will include videos and articles on topics such as workplace accidents, safety equipment or best practices for using ladders. It will also provide information about the most current standards, including the certification of impact resistance and hurricane preparedness. The library will be regularly updated to keep you informed of the most recent developments in fenestration.