Where glass companies buy
Glass shops buy glass cut to size from a local fabricator, and hardware, sealants and tools from a glazing supplier.
| Supplier | Type | What their own site says | Pro program |
|---|---|---|---|
| C.R. Laurence (CRL) | Manufacturer and distributor | Glazing supplies, architectural metals and shower hardware, with service center locations for will-call pickup. | Ask at the counter |
| Ettore | Manufacturer store | Squeegees, washers, scrapers, poles and water-fed poles sold direct. | Ask at the counter |
| The Home Depot | Retailer | Calls itself the world's largest home improvement retailer, with more than 2,300 stores across North America. | Pro Xtra |
From each supplier's own site on the date in the sources; call your branch before you plan around it.
Your counter list
The items glass companies buy every week, from the van stock on our tools list. Ask each supplier for a price on these first; they decide which account saves you the most.
| Item | Why it is on the list |
|---|---|
| Glazing tape and setting blocks | Every insulated unit needs them |
| Silicone in clear and common colors | Showers, mirrors and storefront |
| Mirror mastic and clips | Mirror installs |
| Shower door seals and sweeps | Common small repairs |
| Board-up plywood and screws | Emergency calls for broken glass |
| Protective film and edge guards | Keeping glass safe in transit |
For the first order, price the starter kit too: glass cutters and running pliers; suction cup lifters, a pair; cut-resistant gloves, sleeves and safety glasses; tape measure and a glazing gauge; glazing tools: putty knife, glazier's points driver and setting blocks; caulk gun and sealant tools; cordless drill and driver; window cleaning squeegee; razor scraper. Bigger purchases to price at a dealer or rental house: glass rack for the truck; glass drill bits and a drill press setup; edge polisher or sanding belts; laser level; two-person vacuum lifter.
Opening a trade account
Bring your business name, tax ID and license number, and a credit application if you want terms. The big-box programs are compared row by row on Home Depot Pro vs Lowe's Pro. For the tools themselves, the glass tools list has prices read on the makers' own sites (Ettore).
When supplier prices change
Update your glass price list the same week a supplier raises prices. In Koira, that price list is what your estimates are built from.
Sources
- CRL: About us, checked October 9, 2026
- Ettore: Store, checked October 9, 2026
- The Home Depot: About, checked October 9, 2026
Last checked October 9, 2026. This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change and differ by state and city, so confirm with the agency named before you act.