Trends in the Glazier trade

Equipment

Due to the improvements in the thermal capacity of modern glass, as well as greater client demand for windows that admit more natural light and permit better outside views, the industry has seen an increase in the use of larger, heavier modules. This results in glaziers having to increase their knowledge of and their ability to use hoisting, lifting and rigging equipment, such as mini-cranes, manipulators, and custom power cups and rigging.

3D laser scanners and total stations are being used to perform layout, take field measurements, check embeds and help create computer-aided design (CAD) drawings for fabrication. This improves the efficiency and accuracy of measurements for installations, and facilitates measuring awkward or difficult locations and shapes.

There is an increase in the amount of fabrication that is done in a controlled shop environment, leading to faster installation times of unitized panels. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines designed specifically for the glazing industry are being used by more and more fabrication shops.

Products and Design

Due to growing concerns about climate change and energy efficiency, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), passive house and net-zero design involves significant consideration in the glazing industry. This includes more stringent standards, as well as new materials, design and installation techniques.

There are new standards being used for measuring insulation value; in some jurisdictions, R-value is being supplemented by U-value measures, which measure total energy loss, not just heat loss.

Insulating values of glass are increasing and various new coatings can cause new compatibility concerns with various products and sealants.

Other emerging technologies that improve insulating value are argon and krypton gas-filled sealed units, low-E glass, upgrades in thermally broken extrusions, triple-glazed glass and vacuum-sealed insulated units. In addition, curtain walls made of fibreglass-reinforced plastics (FRP) improve thermal performance (conduction, convection and radiation). Other systems include wood-framed curtain walls for thermal value and aesthetic improvements. There is a greater emphasis on proper membrane installation to improve the integrity of the overall building envelope.

In residential and commercial buildings, there is an increase in the use of smart glass systems, such as electrochromic (dynamic) and photovoltaic. Electrochromic glass is used more where sunlight control and privacy may be required. Photovoltaic glass, such as solar, is used to capture energy.

In the residential sector, there is an increase in the use of window walls and full-vision doors for unobstructed outside viewing. There is also more use of commercial glazing products and systems in the residential sector.

There is an increase in automated doors and windows controlled by handheld remote or automation system apps.

Other products with specific purposes include ballistic/bomb-resistant, fire-rated and bird-friendly glass.

Codes, Regulations and Safety

New energy step codes in place in some jurisdictions require better thermal performance from their glazing systems and will become dramatically more demanding in the future.

Older buildings often have outdated materials that no longer comply with established industry standards. During renovation projects, replacing old windows, doors and specialized glass products requires glaziers to retrofit modern glazing methods and adhere to codes to suit existing structures and maintain the integrity of the building.

The safety of workers and the public is becoming a more important issue, resulting in increased safety training and more emphasis on personal protective equipment (PPE).