Meet Raymond D. Haas
Metal Roofing Maestro and Gold Collar Academy Instructor
Learn from a Metal Roofing Maestro
Gold Collar Academy is proud to have Raymond D Haas as a lead instructor. With over 28 years of hard-won experience in virtually every aspect of the construction industry, Ray brings a passion for the well-built thing and an expertise in what he refers to as "sympathetic detailing."
Some of the finest residential roofs across the North East have been installed by Ray and his crew of artisan roofers. As a result of his skilled crew, Ray has been able to spend the last 4 years as an educator in the field of traditional sheet metal work. Experience he is excited to share with us.
A Lifetime in the Craft
After growing up in Virginia working construction, Ray got into what he now refers to as "Vermont Metal Roofing" or "cut, lap, and caulk". He was also introduced to slate at that time and thus began his foray into restoration. In restoration, you learn a lot if you pay attention.
Ray will tell you that 'paying attention' is the bulk of what he's done, and what he began to understand was that metal work was once done differently. Metal used to be folded, and all the evidence suggested… that it worked! This began his journey down the rabbit hole of traditional technique.
Ray brings a diverse experience in roofing systems, including:
- Slate: sourced from quarries in VA/PA/NY/VT
- Copper: both red and pre-patina from the mills of Revere/ Aurubis/ KME
- Cedar: supplied by Walden/ Watkins /Teal
- Steel: from suppliers like Englert/ Drexel/ PAC-Clad/ Western States and GreenCoat
- Zinc: produced by Rheinzinc/ Nedzinc
- EPDM: Carlisle installer
- TPO: Carlisle installer
- Aluminum: Prefa instructor in the US for 4yrs, DuoFalz brand representative
- Lead
Landmark Projects & Prestigious Clients
A-List Projects
While some of Ray's most impressive work is covered by NDAs, his portfolio includes work for:
- Universities: University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Dartmouth University, Salve Regina University, University of Virginia
- Historic Landmarks: The Breakers, Trinity Chapel, multiple Masonic Temples
- Luxury Homes: Adirondacks, Berkshires, and across NY, VT and NH
Carving a Hole for Quality
Increasing the Standards One Roof at a Time
Ray's persistence and constant demand for excellence has driven him and his crew to define and adapt traditional techniques to US practices and materials. Benefit from Ray's years of insight on using specialized practices to define your market and become the leader in your region.
His training experience includes:
- Prefa Academy-Marktl, Austria
- Prefa Academy- Hamburg, Germany
- Rheinzinc Install techniques
- Wuko Academy- Greensboro, SC
Ray's commitment to quality extends to his certifications:
- OSHA 30
- Rough Terrain Forklift
- Aerial Lift
- Scaffolding
- Rigging
- CPR/First Aid
- DSC Level 1 Drystone Mason
- Initial certificates in Practical Stereotomy
Why Learn from Ray?
The Gold Collar Academy Advantage
At Gold Collar Academy, Ray doesn't just teach metal roofing; he shares decades of accumulated wisdom and traditional techniques. He provides:
- Traditional Techniques: Learn authentic metal folding methods that have stood the test of time.
- Material Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of various metal roofing materials and their applications.
- Hands-on Training: Practice specialized techniques under the guidance of a true master craftsman.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Develop the critical thinking needed to tackle complex roofing challenges.
- Market Differentiation: Learn how to position yourself as a premium service provider in your region.
- Restoration Knowledge: Understand how to approach historic restoration projects with authenticity.