By Matt Landry, Red Dog’s Roofing. 

Red Dog’s Roofing promotes leadership by encouraging team members to learn, communicate and take ownership of their work. 

Creating a strong roofing company starts with building a strong team, and that team starts with leadership. Red Dog’s Roofing views leadership not as a job title but as a daily mindset. This mindset should be a daily practice to strengthen both the culture of your team and the quality of service that homeowners receive. 

In an industry where productivity and project schedules matter, long-term success depends just as much on developing the skills of your team as it does on completing tasks. 

A leader looks at the people behind the tasks and asks: 

• Are they learning? 
• Do they feel supported? 
• Are they connected to the bigger picture of what we’re building together? 

When you lead, you’re not just checking boxes; sometimes you’re lighting fires. You’re helping people discover their own potential and take ownership of what they do. 

Leading takes patience… and courage 

Managing can be reactive: you see a problem, you fix it. Leading is proactive: you see potential, and you invest in it. 

That’s not always the easy route. It means having hard conversations. It means believing in someone before they fully believe in themselves. It means challenging people to rise, not just to meet expectations, but to surpass them. 

And when you do that… When you help someone grow into their best self, the ripple effect spreads through every corner of the company. 

Our goal: A culture of leaders at every level 

At Red Dog’s Roofing, we don’t want people who just manage tasks. We want people who lead with vision, empathy and example, whether they’re a foreman, a call center rep, a project coordinator, or a crew member on a roof in the Florida sun. 

Leadership isn’t about authority. It’s about responsibility. It’s about being the person who lifts others up, communicates clearly and stays calm when things get tough. 

Because in the end, great companies aren’t built by managers keeping the lights on; they’re built by leaders who turn on the spark in others. 

Original article and photo source: Red Dog’s Roofing

By Matt Landry, Red Dog’s Roofing.  

Red Dog’s Roofing prioritizes investing in their local community to build a stronger future. 

At Red Dog’s Roofing, we take pride in protecting homes one shingle at a time, but our real work extends far beyond the rooftop. For us, roofing isn’t just about keeping out the rain. It’s about building something bigger: a stronger, more connected community. 

In the roofing industry, contractors often get lost in the weeds of the work. But Red Dog’s Roofing believes that a company’s success depends on the well-being of the people it serves. That’s why we invest time and energy back into our community: 

• Investing in students. At local high schools and tech schools, we talk to kids about the trades, life skills and career direction. Not everyone needs to take the “college or bust” road. We like to remind them: “College is an option. So is owning a toolbox.” 
• SkillsUSA partnerships. We’ve put time and energy into SkillsUSA events, helping young people prove that skill, work ethic and teamwork matter. Plus, it’s fun watching the next generation of builders absolutely crush it in competition. 
• Raising money for mental health. Construction has one of the highest mental health challenges of any industry. We’re not about to sweep that under the rug (or under the shingles). Instead, we hiked up Mount Washington and raised funds, awareness and a few sore calves along the way. 

Here’s the truth: people can buy shingles from anywhere. They can get a dozen quotes for roofing. But what they can’t buy is belonging. When you show up at a high school, support mental health or pitch in for a cause, you’re not just slapping shingles on wood. 

You’re showing people they matter. 

And when a business cares about its people, a funny thing happens: the people care right back. 

We believe that businesses, especially local ones, have a responsibility to pitch in, lend a hand and show up for their neighbors. After all, roofs are about more than just keeping the rain out. They’re about giving families a safe place to gather, laugh, rest and argue over whose turn it is to do the dishes. 

So yeah, we’ll keep building roofs. But more importantly, we’ll also keep building community. One fundraiser, one classroom visit and one SkillsUSA competition at a time. 

Because when you take care of the people around you, you’re not just building stronger houses. You’re building stronger futures. 

If you’re a local business, what can you do to make the community around you a better place? Let’s pitch in together and make this happen. It isn’t hard — it just takes a little time and a lot of caring. 

Original article and photo source: Red Dog’s Roofing

By Matt Landry, Red Dog’s Roofing. 

Be aware of the negative effects an improper ventilation system can have on your home and your health. 

Your roof does more than just shield you from the elements. Beneath the surface, there’s a critical system working quietly to protect your home. Proper attic ventilation and insulation are often overlooked, yet they play a key role in regulating airflow and temperature throughout your house. When these elements are missing or poorly maintained, the impact goes beyond discomfort — it can harm the integrity of your home and even your health. Here at Red Dog’s Roofing, we want to make sure you are aware of these consequences so you can give your whole roofing system the attention it deserves. 

The high cost of neglect 

Failing to prioritize attic ventilation and insulation can lead to serious long-term damage. Many homeowners don’t realize these problems until it’s too late. 

• Structural damage: Trapped moisture in your attic space creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew and wood rot. Over time, this can weaken the structural integrity of your roof, leading to expensive repairs or even partial reconstruction. 
• Premature roof failure: Even a brand-new roof won’t last long without proper ventilation. Heat and moisture buildup under the shingles can cause them to blister, crack or curl — often resulting in complete roof failure in just a few years. 
• Escalating energy bills: Poor insulation allows heat to escape in the winter and enter in the summer, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. The result? Higher utility bills month after month. 

Health hazards lurking overhead 

Your roof doesn’t just protect your house from the elements — it also plays a role in your family’s health and comfort. 

• Mold growth: A poorly ventilated attic is a breeding ground for mold. Mold spores can seep into your living areas through vents, ductwork or tiny gaps in the ceiling. This can trigger allergies, asthma and other respiratory issues — especially dangerous for children and older adults. 
• Air quality decline: Without proper airflow, your home’s air becomes stagnant. Pollutants and allergens accumulate, creating an unhealthy indoor environment. A well-ventilated attic helps to ensure clean, breathable air flows throughout your home. 

Today’s roofing systems demand more 

Modern roofing materials and installation methods are far more airtight than they used to be. Peel-and-stick underlayments, for example, are designed to form a watertight seal — which is great for keeping moisture out but also traps heat and humidity inside if the roof isn't properly ventilated. 

This is especially critical in warm, humid climates like Florida, where temperatures can soar and afternoon storms are a regular occurrence. Without a way for air to circulate and moisture to escape, even the most durable roofing materials can break down under pressure. 

The bottom line 

An energy-efficient, long-lasting roofing system isn’t just about choosing reflective shingles or the right color. It’s about understanding the full roofing ecosystem — especially the importance of attic ventilation and insulation. 

If you're planning a roof replacement or building a new home, make sure your contractor is considering how air and moisture will move through your roof system. It's not just about prolonging your roof's life — it's about protecting your home, your wallet and your well-being. 

Is your attic breathing properly? It might be time for a roof inspection. 

Original article source: Red Dog’s Roofing

By Jenny Yu.  

This roofing company hosted a day for youth to learn about the trades! 

On July 10, 2025, Red Dog’s Roofing held their first Community Roofing & Trades Day in Gardner, Massachusetts. The goal of the event: show young people what’s possible and unlock their future.  

“We believe the trades are not just a job, they’re a pathway to pride, purpose and prosperity,” said Matt Landry, reputation manager at Red Dog’s Roofing in a press release. “This event is our way of giving back to the community and showing students that success can come from using your hands and heart.” 

Since 2012, Red Dog’s Roofing has served their community with integrity, premium service and quality craftsmanship. They are dedicated to training and forming up-and-coming professionals, as evident through this educational, community-forward event.  

The Community Roofing & Trades Day included hands-on stations where students could explore various tools of the trades with industry professionals, resume workshopping opportunities and fun prizes and giveaways.  

One key part of the day was the Trades Panel and Q&A session. “This panel was about breaking down stereotypes,” panelist Patrick Cochran, CEO of Red Dog’s Roofing, shared with The Gardner News. “The trades offer freedom — financial freedom, creative freedom and the chance to rise as far as your work ethic will take you.” 

The event drew support from several industry leaders, including National Women in Roofing, SRS Distribution, CertainTeed, Owens Corning and ABC Supply. Together with Red Dog’s Roofing at the helm, these leaders created an experience that showed the diversity of people and opportunities that the trades provide — from shingle installation and siding application to sales, marketing and recruiting.  

“This is how we change the narrative,” Patrick stated. “We need more young people to see the trades as not just an option, but a smart, powerful path forward. Today, I think we planted a lot of seeds.” 

Learn more about Red Dog’s Roofing and their community efforts.

Photo source: Red Dog's Roofing

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Honoring family roots, scaling smart and bringing hands-on leadership to a growing roofing empire. 

When Patrick Cochran founded Red Dog’s Roofing in 2012, the name wasn’t just catchy, it was personal. “The name is very symbolic,” Patrick said in this Roofer of the Month podcast. “I named the company after my grandfather, his nickname was Red. My dad said he worked like a dog, so I kind of combined the two.” That blend of respect for the past and ambition for the future has powered the Massachusetts-based company’s growth from a one-man repair shop to a multi-market roofing force with offices in Massachusetts, Florida and Connecticut. In the early days, Patrick operated with just a single crew. Now, Red Dog’s Roofing boasts a large staff tackling various department needs and continues expanding into both residential and commercial services. 

The company’s evolution has remained tightly focused on accountability and communication; values Patrick says stem directly from his hands-on approach. He explained, “There’s an apostrophe in the name, right? So, it kind of shows ownership. I really wanted to make sure that customers knew that I was going to take ownership of projects.” 

Red Dog’s Roofing focuses heavily on residential replacements, commercial work and full exterior remodels in the Northeast. But what sets the business apart, Patrick said, is its commitment to complex, custom solutions. “We take on very intricate and tough projects that some contractors will kind of stay away from,” he said. “If a customer wants a new product, I have a team that can really research it. And work with the manufacturer to make sure new products are installed properly.” 

That dedication to both quality and innovation has earned the trust of customers and recognition within the roofing community. With July marking 13-and-a-half years in business, the company celebrates its first-ever Red Dog’s Roofing Week, timed to honor Patrick’s grandfather’s birthday and centered on three pillars: community, industry advancement and team recognition. 

The week includes multiple roof giveaways, a trade show aimed at attracting the next generation of roofing professionals and a full team training with an award ceremony. “This is really about team effort,” Patrick said. “That apostrophe kind of grew into all of us really taking that ownership.” 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast for the full story behind Red Dog’s Roofing, including their customer-first mindset and the deeper mission behind Roofing Week! 

By Patrick Cochran and Matt Landry, Red Dog’s Roofing. 

Ventilation is key to keeping your roof healthy and performing efficiently. 

While we might imagine one structure when we think about our roof, it’s actually made up of a range of different parts and sub-systems. From the eaves to the decking to the shingles and beyond, all of these different products and materials affect how the roof and your home perform long term.  

For example, if you want to make sure that your space stays energy efficient and protected for as long as possible, you need to pay attention to the ventilation system beneath your roof. The team here at Red Dog’s Roofing has seen firsthand how this silent issue can cause premature roof failure. That’s why we’re sharing this article, which covers why ventilation matters so much to your roof.  

Heat buildup 

Without a well-designed system of intake and exhaust vents (such as soffit vents at the eaves and ridge vents at the peak), your attic becomes a heat trap. During Florida’s long summer months, this trapped heat can cause the roof to "bake" from the inside out, stressing your shingles, warping materials and increasing your cooling bills as your AC works overtime. 

Moisture accumulation 

Everyday activities like cooking, bathing and even breathing add moisture to your home. Without proper ventilation, that warm, moist air rises and settles in your attic. Over time, this leads to mold growth, dry rot and damage to your roof’s structural components, including the sheathing and plywood. Moisture is one of the biggest threats to roof integrity, and it’s often invisible until significant damage is done. 

Granule loss 

Shingle granules protect your roof from UV rays and physical wear. When attic temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, shingles age faster and begin to lose these granules prematurely. This results in a shorter roof lifespan and a greater likelihood of leaks and deterioration. 

Common ventilation issues 

• Insufficient soffit or ridge vents: A lack of balance between intake and exhaust ventilation reduces airflow and traps heat and moisture. 
• Broken or disconnected ductwork: Vents from kitchen hoods or bathroom fans sometimes dump moisture directly into the attic instead of outside, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. 
• Lack of professional oversight: DIY roofing projects or unqualified installations often miss key ventilation requirements, putting your entire roofing system at risk. 

Proper attic ventilation isn’t just about roof health; it’s about whole-home efficiency and long-term savings.  

Original article source: Red Dog’s Roofing

By Matt Landry, Red Dog’s Roofing.

Learn about the reasons more homeowners are opting for metal on their homes.

While it is not a new roofing material, metal is getting its moment in the spotlight. For decades, metal was seen as a quick and affordable option for industrial buildings and agricultural spaces. You would typically find it on barns or livestock pens and the material itself was often thin and metallic.  

Today, metal roofing is no longer just a functional choice, it is an aesthetic choice as well. Technology advancement means that homeowners looking at metal have countless options such as color to choose from. Beyond metal’s durability and aesthetic appeal, there are many other reasons that metal roofing is growing in popularity. Keep reading to learn four reasons we love metal roofing here at Red Dog’s Roofing.

1 - Rain ambiance

The soothing sound of rain on a roof can be hard to beat, but rain on a metal roof can’t be beat. The gentle pitter patter of raindrops is so calming and meditative, you may wish for rain every day!

2 - Allergy prevention

Wait… what? That’s right, metal roofs prevent many mold, mildew and algae growths that can be commonly found on traditional asphalt shingle roofs. Less mildew and mold means far less allergic reactions within the confines of your home.  

3 - Heating or cooling properties

Depending on the light or dark colors you may choose, you can naturally help to regulate whether you want to attract more heat (darker color for colder states) or help keep heat down (lighter colors for warmer states)

4 - Fire prevention

Put plainly, metal roofing won’t catch fire. Its fire preventative properties are yet another reason why people could choose to use it in place of shingles.  

Regardless of the choices of why you would choose to buy a metal roof, there are almost no bad ones in the bunch! Durability, style, ease of care and flexibility are the main ones, but as you can see, there are many more!

Original article source: Red Dog’s Roofing

By Red Dog’s Roofing.

Hiring the right contractor is easier — and more important — than you think.

A new roof isn’t just a repair — it’s an investment in your home’s safety, value and peace of mind. The good news? Finding the right contractor doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little guidance and the right questions, you can avoid the guesswork and hire a pro who will do the job right the first time. Whether your roof is leaking or just showing its age, this guide from our team at Red Dog’s Roofing will help you make a confident, informed decision that protects your home and your budget.

Section 1: Three minimum requirements

When looking for a roofing contractor, it is important to keep three minimum factors in mind.

1 – Insurance

It is required by most states for a roofing contractor to have insurance. There are three types of insurance the contractor should have: general liability, auto insurance and workers compensation. Insurance coverage for contractors is outlined on certificates of insurance. These insurance certificates are important to see and verify the contractor has insurance. Without insurance, your roofing project could be putting you at risk if anything were to happen during the project.

2 – Licensing

The second factor to keep in mind is that some states, like Massachusetts, require two separate licenses for residential roofing work. The contractor must have a Home Improvement Contractor’s license to perform residential work and a Construction Supervisors License to oversee the work being performed. These two licenses, along with the contractor’s certificate of insurance, are used to apply for a building permit at your local city or town building department.

3 – Permit

The permit is the third factor when considering the bare minimum, a contractor must have to perform the work at your home. Permits are applied for by the contractor, issued by your town or city’s building department and the work is then inspected after the project is complete. A contractor should always apply for the permit and under no circumstances should the contractor ask the homeowner to apply for the permit. If this happens, it is possible the contractor does not have the proper issuance or licenses required by the state.

These three factors are a baseline and the bare minimum you should look for when choosing a roofing contractor.  

A new roof is a big purchase and an extremely important one for your home. If installed properly, it can be an asset and a great investment, however, if not properly installed it can become a costly liability.  

For that reason, there are a few more steps in section 2 you can take to make sure the roofing contractors you are considering are a good fit for your project and will offer your home great value.

Section 2: Choosing the right contractor

1 – Reviews and online presence

When choosing a local roofing company, it’s always a good idea to look at their online presence and check if they have good reviews. Google is a great place to look at a company’s reviews and see what other people have experienced when hiring that company. Another great place to look is the Better Business Bureau and checking out their rating and reviews on the BBB.  

2 – Reference list

A qualified roofing contractor should also be able to supply you with a reference list of past customers that you can call to ask about their personal experience with the company.

3 – Certifications

A quality roofing company will also have certifications from industry manufacturing companies. When a contractor has certifications, they are able to offer extended warranties on products and extended warranties on workmanship. If a contractor does not have these certifications these additional warranties cannot be purchased from the contractor. In most instances, certified contractors use the best industry practices and have been vetted by the manufacturing company. However, this is not always the case. To ensure the contractor uses best practices ask them about how they train their employees and what training their certifying company has provided.

4 – Industry and community involvement

There are many roofing contractors to choose from, however, not all of these companies are created equally. There are many great roofing companies out there doing great and honest work. However, there are just as many doing things the wrong way and are untrustworthy. With that being said, when looking into a roofing contractor, another great attribute for the contractor to have is community involvement and industry involvement.  

The roofing industry is rapidly changing and there are many people around the country working hard each day to help move the industry forward in many great ways. Between technology, training and the industry’s overall image there are industry leaders that work hard together to continue to push the industry into the future. Whether they are involved with local or national associations or just working hard to implement best practices for their business that increase transparency and offer customers more than just a “new roof.” They have created an experience that is worth sharing and talking about with people you may know, all while providing the best roofing practices that they will stand by.  

Choosing a roofing contractor can be difficult, but if you choose the right one, you can bring great value to your home. This is a big financial investment and an important one for your home and everything in it. When choosing a roofing contractor be mindful of what the state requirements are to be legally operating a roofing business in that area.. To make the right choice for your home, think about how roofing contractors are changing the industry and creating an experience for a customer to help them understand the process and give them a great roofing system that is backed by the contractor and a manufacturing company that stands by them. Although a new roof isn’t always a desired purchase, it is an important one. So, if you are tasked with choosing a roofing contractor for your home, review this guide and start to search the internet.

Original article and photo source: Red Dog's Roofing

By Emma Peterson.

This year marks the first year that Massachusetts's SkillsUSA competition includes commercial roofing, all thanks to Red Dog’s Roofing.

Earlier this year, Patrick Cochran of Red Dog’s Roofing out of Fitchburg, Massachusetts stopped by The Coffee Shops™ to talk about their 2025 initiative to get commercial roofing into their state’s SkillsUSA competition. As part of making this dream a reality, Patrick had met and presented to the SkillsUSA leaders last fall. He shared a bit about that experience saying, “They wanted to really make sure that it's a good opportunity for students not just to get the hands-on training, but to be able to take those skills and essentially get into the workforce. So I did a presentation really talking about who we were, our partnerships and how the industry has evolved over the last couple of years and what our projections were for 2025.”

From there, he got the advisors together to do some training to prepare for the competition (you can get a glimpse of the action on Red Dog’s YouTube channel!). The event was hosted in collaboration with sponsors like NRCA, Duro-Last, Genflex and SRS Distribution. It truly showcased the industry’s willingness to show up to help future generations learn the trades.

And this is just the start of the journey to nationals for commercial roofing in SkillsUSA Massachusetts. From here, Red Dog and their industry partners will be providing school curriculum, hosting hands-on training with professionals, donating materials/tools and working to help participating students build an industry network. Patrick elaborated, “We are meeting the kids where they're at and we're going to bring them not only technical skills, but also work on personal development skills by bringing them to our office, allowing  them to really experience the industry as a whole.” This means introducing them to the jobs that are available on the roof, but also the jobs in the office, like logistics, accounting, marketing and sales.  

Karen Ward, the head of SkillsUSA Massachusetts, shared a few thoughts about Red Dog’s introduction of commercial roofing into the competition, saying, “Red Dog represents a company that's forward thinking, that uses the technology that thinks about the future of their industry as they're moving forward. And we want those examples for our students and our teachers. It matters because we want our schools teaching curriculum that demonstrates the new technologies in the industry that they're in.”

All of this prep-work is coming together on May 1-3, 2025 for the Massachusetts State Leadership & Skills Conference! Make sure to keep an eye out to see who is representing the state in nationals.