Whether it comes to replacing broken windows, minor repairs, commercial or residential glass works, or luxurious additions to your home such as splash backs and shower screens; a qualified glazier has a wide range of skills and expertise to help you ensure your home, building or business is safe and secure. Qualified Tradesmen who are equipped with the knowledge and skills of the glazing trade are necessary to use if you want a glass job done right the first time.
So why use a qualified glazier?
What Does a Glazier Do?
Many people assume glaziers only replace windows, but their work extends far beyond that. A qualified glazier handles anything involving glass installation, repair, and safety in both residential and commercial settings. They cut, measure, and install glass for doors, windows, balustrades, mirrors, splashbacks, and shower screens.
Glaziers also work closely with builders, architects, and homeowners to ensure each glass product complies with Australian Standards AS1288 for strength, wind load, and human impact safety. Whether it’s fitting custom glass panels in a luxury home or replacing a damaged shopfront window, glaziers combine craftsmanship with precision measurement to deliver a clean, secure, and long-lasting result.
If you’ve ever admired a frameless shower or a sleek glass balustrade, chances are a professional glazier made that possible.
6 Reasons You Need a Qualified Glazier
1. Qualified Glaziers are knowledgeable in their trade area
Firstly they undertake a 4 year Apprenticeship whereby they learn the practical skills and theory to become fully qualified.
By working alongside a tradesman they learn with a hands on approach the wide range of tasks they require to complete their jobs. Secondly, they work and adhere to the Australian Standards AS1288 – Glass in Buildings – Selection and Installation which outlines all the rules and regulations of the types of glass which can be used, where they can be used, the maximum areas that are allowed, human impact safety, wind loading and a variety of unique factors to specific works.
You can rest assured that when you hire a qualified glazier you are not only going to get a job completed correctly, but that you are ensuring that your family is in the safest hands possible.
2. They have the experience
By completing the qualifications and applying these skills practically, glaziers encounter a wide range of different jobs. Not only does this keep them on their toes and means that no 2 jobs are never the same.
They must quickly adapt and learn the things which will or won’t work on certain jobs, and more importantly, knowing the best way to do things or tackle problems which may occasionally arise.
This experience means that whatever job you require, you can take comfort in knowing qualified glaziers have the industry knowledge to solve your glazing needs.
3. Skills/techniques
Glaziers learn a vast range of skills and techniques to handle glass and glazing tasks. Often glaziers attend jobs/works whereby the existing parts and materials are obsolete. They must use quick thinking, modifications on the spot and their skills to ensure they can complete your job to the highest standard possible.
4. Tools of the trade
Glaziers possess all the tools essential for the glazing trade. Do you want jobs to be completed promptly, effectively and properly? Glaziers have at hand all the essential tools and components required to complete your glazing jobs.
Often the tradesmen will have the tools in their vehicles as many glaziers work out the back of their utes. Additionally, if the company you select has a physical workshop, you can be sure to find an array of tools to complete every job.
5. Insurance
Qualified glaziers undertake works which can be risky to their own safety and the safety of others. It is essential that you select glaziers who have current insurance from a reputable insurance company.
Public liability insurance that covers risks, injuries and income enables glaziers to complete works with peace of mind. When selecting glaziers it is important to take this into consideration before you proceed with works.
6. Industry Associations
Check to see if your glazing company is accredited with an Industry accreditation authority or association. Have you heard of the Australian Glass and Window Association (AGWA)? It is in Australia the industry accreditation body that ensures glazing companies meet compliance requirements. These requirements are a part of their membership.
These bodies help companies meet benchmark standards for:
- running their businesses,
- safety practices,
- ensure training and qualifications are up to date and relevant.
Insurance for Glaziers and Why It Matters
Working with glass can be risky. Accidents, breakages, and site injuries can occur even for experienced tradespeople. That’s why glazier insurance is an essential part of the trade.
A qualified glazier should hold public liability insurance, which covers property damage or injury caused while on the job. Many also maintain income protection or tools insurance to safeguard their livelihood if they’re unable to work.
When hiring a glazier, always ask about their insurance coverage. A properly insured tradesperson shows professionalism and accountability, giving you peace of mind that your project is protected from unexpected costs or damages.
Frequently Asked Question
How do I choose the right glazier for my home or business?
Look for a licensed glazier with strong local reviews, current insurance, and membership with an industry association such as the Australian Glass and Window Association (AGWA). Always ask for examples of previous work before hiring.
Can glaziers repair glass, or do they only replace it?
Glaziers can often repair cracked or chipped glass if the damage is minor and doesn’t affect safety. However, for structural glass or safety glass, a full replacement is usually required.
How much does it cost to hire a glazier in Australia?
The cost depends on the job type, glass thickness, and materials used. Small repairs might start from around $100, while large custom installations like splashbacks or balustrades can range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Conclusion
Knowing that your glazier is part of an industry association provides further reassurance. You are then using the best glazier/company for your jobs. Contact us if you’re looking for a qualified glazier in the Wollongong or Illawarra regions.
