What Does a Glazing Installer Do?
Glaziers are accountable for the installation of glass in a variety of locations. They can work on storefronts and skylights. They may also fabricate and install metal sashes and mouldings. They also operate ladders, powertools, and scaffolding.
When preparing frames for glazing, avoid using silicone putty. This type of putty is likely to fail shortly after installation and could actually break the glass.
Flat glass
Glass is a versatile material for construction. Its structural properties can also be modified to produce different kinds of glass that are suitable for building applications. For windows, doors, skylights or even interior curtain walls, glass offers many advantages such as thermal performance, safety as well as aesthetics. It can also be treated with different additives to change its physical properties and make it more suitable for certain functions.
The float process is an economical method of producing flat glass with uniform thickness. This allows you to produce a wide range of glass for buildings, including tinted and coated glass. Flat glass is a great option for modern window systems due to its insulation properties.
Float glass, which accounts for 90 percent of Saint Gobain flat glass sales, is the most common type of glazing sold internationally. The annealed glass can be high in recycled content (between 20 and 30 percent) which can help reduce the environmental impact and expenses. It also offers a variety of options for coating and finishing that allows designers and architects to create unique glass designs.
Glass is a robust material, however it can break and crack when exposed to stress or pressure. To prevent this from happening, the glass must be handled with care during transport and installation to minimize edge damage. The techniques for handling outlined in GANA's Flat Glass Manual and PPG's Technical Bulletin TD112-Handling Do's and Don'ts to Reduce Fragility will help to reduce the possibility of glass failure.
Before installing the glass the glazing installer must make sure that the frame is in good shape. The frame should be free of dust or other foreign object that could hinder the adhesive's performance. The installer should also clean the glass's surface to get rid of any oil or dirt. This will ensure a strong and long-lasting bond.
The process of glazing should be done indoors where there is not much dust. It is best to use an adhesive agent that can be able to withstand a variety of temperatures. This can be accomplished with a silicone sealant, which is particularly effective in high-rise structures or other areas where temperatures can vary significantly.
Structural silicone
Structural Silicon Glazing (SSG) is a growing popular alternative to traditional captured systems. It allows designers to attain higher thermal efficiency and comply with strict energy standards without sacrificing aesthetics. It is also more robust and flexible than captured systems. This means that it can withstand greater dynamic loads. It is important to use an experienced glazing contractor and a good track record when using SSG. This will ensure the sealant is properly applied and 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 endure a variety of temperatures and weather conditions. A good SSG will last for 30 years or more, but it is recommended to test it regularly to look for any damage or degradation.
The structural silicone must be compatible with any component including the frame and glass. It must be resistant to abrasion, UV radiation, water and extreme temperature fluctuations. In addition, it should have low vapor permeance as well as good adhesion to a range of materials. It should be compatible to all metals, including galvanized iron aluminum, galvanized steel, and other metals.
Structural silicons are available in a vast spectrum of colors that can be matched to the design palette for the project. For example, IQ uses black Dow Corning high-modulus structural silicone to create its large glazed elevations. This allows for slim joints and a sleek design that is in line with the overall design.
It is essential to understand the behavior of structural silicone under different support conditions. This is especially important for hung-sworded and hung-sworded façade systems. It is essential to calculate the size and performance of a system to assess the permanent stresses that are locked into the structural silicon. The results can be used in improving the design of a future projects.
Adhesives
Adhesives are the substances employed by glass installers to secure surfaces. They are available in various types, including liquids, aerosols, and tapes. The strength of the adhesive is determined by its ability to form an chemical bond with the surface it is applying to. Modern adhesives can be made of natural or synthetic materials and are extremely strong. double glazing installations are also available in a variety of different forms, such as solvent-based, hot melt, and reactive.
There are two kinds of adhesives: structural and non-structural. Structural glues are made to withstand the rigors of heavy loads, while non-structural are better suited for lighter applications. These adhesives are usually classified by their resistance to temperature and load bearing capacity and other features. In order to ensure the security of your glazing system, it is essential to select the appropriate type of adhesive for your project.
You can choose to use acrylic or polymer glue depending on the application and conditions. Acrylic adhesives are an excellent option for most projects because they can be used on a broad variety of substrates. They are water-resistant and provide excellent shear and flexural performance. They are also extremely durable and have a low compression set. Polymer glues on the other hand, are more prone to heat and require a special attention.
The structure and size will determine the type of adhesive you select. For instance, if you have an enormous commercial building that has high wind loads, you'll need to use a structural glazing tape. This type of adhesive is strong enough to withstand the highest winds and has the highest architectural ratings for any glazing system. The most effective method to apply this type of adhesive is using a machine or manual that applies uniform pressure.
Sika has a full line of polyurethane, silicone, and hybrid sealants to meet any commercial glazing contractor's requirements. These products are ideal for glazing contractors who require an effective and durable adhesive for installation and weather sealing.
Sika offers a range of glazing tools and accessories in addition to a broad range of construction adhesives. These tools are essential to the process of glazing and will assist you in finishing your task quickly and precisely. The Sika glazing tools consist of several brushes, tapes, and caulking guns that can be used to apply the right amount of adhesive to your glass units.
Safety
Glaziers are involved in a variety of tasks, from replacing damaged windows to installing shower doors and mirrors. The job requires careful attention to the smallest detail, and a flawless installation is essential for both aesthetics and practical. This is why selecting a company that has been certified by FENSA is crucial.
A skilled glazing installer will be educated in a variety of areas, including safety procedures, materials and tools. These skills are required to help protect the health and well-being of employees and reduce the risk of workplace accidents. Additionally, a reliable glazing contractor should have first-aid training and emergency plans in place to prevent injuries.
Additionally, contractors should make sure that they are protected from workplace hazards, like hot illnesses and falling debris. This includes providing personal protective equipment, making sure that the work area is clear of obstructions, and following the proper lifting procedure. Also, they should make sure that all equipment is properly secured, especially when they are being transported and stored.
It is vital that glass companies have an employee who is able to ensure the safety of their employees and ensure compliance with industry standards. The safety officer can assist in educating workers on how to identify and manage potential hazards, and ensure that employees follow safety rules and regulations.
Glaziers are often faced with extreme weather conditions. This is particularly so during summer. The proper steps can be taken to keep them safe and comfortable, improving their productivity and efficiency.
Safety is a crucial element of any project, but it's even more critical for a glazing contractor. Safety is affected by a variety of factors, including weather, the use hazardous chemicals, or the necessity to install high-risk products in dangerous areas.
The fenestration sector has launched a new Safety Library, which will provide safety-related resources to FGIA Members. The new library features an array of videos and articles that cover topics such as workplace injuries, safety equipment, and best practices when using ladders. The library will also include information on the most recent standards, including the certification of impact resistance as well as hurricane preparation. The library will be updated regularly to keep you updated on the most recent developments in fenestration security.