How to Become a Glazier in the UK
Glaziers measure, cut and fit glass in windows, doors, conservatories, shopfronts, balustrades and commercial curtain walling. Day to day you might replace broken units, install double-glazed windows, fit safety glass in the right places, seal frames and work from ladders, towers or MEWPs on larger buildings.
You don't need a degree. Most glaziers train through an apprenticeship or start as a glazier's mate or window fitter, learning on the job while working towards an NVQ. The work is physical, and you need a head for heights and careful handling.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £24,000 - £28,000
- Mid-career salary
- £30,000 - £42,000
- Senior salary
- £48,000 - £62,000
- Work environment
- On-site, hands-on, often outdoors
- Time to entry
- 2 - 4 years (apprenticeship)
- Degree required
- Not required - apprenticeship route
- Category
- Skilled Trades
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What a Glazier does
Cut, fit and replace glass in windows, shopfronts and structural installations.
- Glass Installation - Cut, fit and replace glazing in homes and offices.
- Commercial Curtain Walling - Install structural glazing on commercial builds.
- Bespoke and Decorative - Stained, leaded and bespoke decorative glass.
- Emergency Glazing - 24/7 break-in and storm-damage response.
How to become a glazier in the UK
The usual route is an apprenticeship with a glazing or window installation firm, such as the Level 2 Fenestration Installer apprenticeship, or starting as a glazier's mate and completing an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in a glazing or installation subject on site. GQA Qualifications is a common awarding body for these. Most sites need a CSCS card, and IPAF training for MEWPs or PASMA training for mobile towers helps for commercial work. Firms replacing windows in England and Wales usually register with a competent person scheme such as FENSA or Certass to self-certify Building Regulations compliance.
- Apply for a glazing or fenestration installer apprenticeship, or a glazier's mate job with a window, shopfront or commercial glazing firm.
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test so you can apply for a CSCS card for site work.
- Learn to measure openings accurately, handle and cut glass safely, and fit, pack and seal units in timber, uPVC and aluminium frames.
- Work towards an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in a glazing or installation subject, assessed on real jobs you complete on site.
- Take IPAF or PASMA training if you want commercial work at height, such as curtain walling and shopfronts.
- Learn the safety glazing rules for doors, low-level panes and balustrades so you always fit the right toughened or laminated glass.
- Once experienced, consider emergency glazing, decorative work or setting up your own firm registered with a competent person scheme.
| Route | How long | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glazing or fenestration apprenticeship | 1-3 years | Paid, training funded | School leavers |
| Glazier's mate with an on-site NVQ | 1-3 years | NVQ often employer-funded | Adults who want to earn straight away |
| College construction course, then trainee role | 1-2 years | Often free for 16-18s | Learners without an apprenticeship place |
How long it takes
You can start as a glazier's mate or apprentice within weeks, and most people become fully skilled glaziers in 2 to 4 years.
Glazier salary in the UK
New glaziers and apprentices usually earn around £24,000 to £28,000. Qualified glaziers typically make £30,000 to £42,000, and experienced specialists, supervisors and contract managers can earn £48,000 to £62,000. Commercial curtain walling and structural glazing work tends to pay more than domestic window fitting. Overtime, emergency call-outs and travel to sites add to earnings. Self-employed glaziers set their own rates, so their income depends on how much work they win and their costs.
Key skills
- Glass handling
- Measuring
- Sealing
- Working at height
- Heavy lifting
Glazier FAQs
How do I become a glazier in the UK?
Apply for a glazing or fenestration apprenticeship, or start as a glazier's mate and work towards an NVQ on site. Get a CSCS card, learn safe glass handling and safety glazing rules, and add working at height training for commercial jobs.
What qualifications do you need to be a glazier?
You don't need any to start as a mate or apprentice, though employers may ask for GCSE English and maths. Most glaziers work towards an NVQ Level 2 or 3, hold a CSCS card, and add IPAF or PASMA training for work at height.
How much does a glazier earn?
New glaziers and apprentices usually earn £24,000 to £28,000. Qualified glaziers typically make £30,000 to £42,000, and experienced specialists or supervisors can earn £48,000 to £62,000, with commercial work usually paying more.
What is the difference between a glazier and a window fitter?
Window fitters mainly install complete window and door units in homes. Glaziers work with the glass itself as well, cutting, replacing and fitting it in windows, shopfronts, balustrades and commercial buildings. Many people do both during their career.
Is Glazier right for you?
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