Compare the highest-rated cabinet installers professionals in Ambler, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, full-service residential construction and remodeling company based in Fairbanks. They handle projects of all scales and are known for their high-quality finish work and custom carpentry. They frequently coordinate logistics for projects in the Bush and rural Alaska.
A specialized shop focused on custom woodworking and cabinetmaking. They are highly regarded for their attention to detail and ability to create bespoke pieces tailored to a client's specific needs and space. They service the broader Interior and Northwestern Alaska region.
A general contractor based in Kotzebue, which is the regional hub closest to Ambler. They are the most locally accessible option for a wide range of home improvement services, including cabinet installation and kitchen/bath remodels. Their proximity makes them a practical first call for smaller jobs.
** The cabinet installation market for Ambler, Alaska, is virtually non-existent locally and is entirely dependent on contractors from larger population centers like Kotzebue and Fairbanks. This dynamic significantly impacts the market. Competition is low in a traditional sense, but access to services is a major challenge. Homeowners in Ambler must plan for significant lead times and higher costs, which include transportation (often via air freight) for materials and the contractor's travel time and expenses. The quality of work available is high, as the contractors who undertake remote work are typically established, versatile, and proficient in managing complex logistics. Typical pricing is well above the national average, reflecting the high cost of materials and the "Bush premium" for skilled labor travel. Projects require careful coordination and are best scheduled well in advance.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ambler regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about cabinet installers services in Ambler, Alaska.
Ambler's subarctic climate, with its long, cold winters and significant temperature fluctuations, requires special consideration. We strongly recommend using solid wood or high-quality plywood cabinets, as they are more dimensionally stable and less prone to warping or cracking than particleboard in dry, heated interiors. Proper acclimation of materials in your home for at least 72 hours before installation is absolutely critical to prevent future gaps or binding.
The timeline is highly dependent on the season. During the summer construction window (May-September), projects can proceed more quickly, often within 2-4 weeks from order to completion. In winter, shipping delays on the Dalton Highway or via air freight are common, and contractor availability may be limited, potentially extending timelines to 8-12 weeks or more. Planning your project in late winter for a summer installation is the most reliable strategy.
For a standard cabinet replacement that doesn't alter plumbing or electrical, a permit is typically not required from the Northwest Arctic Borough. However, if your project is part of a larger remodel involving structural changes, new plumbing, or electrical work (common in Ambler's older homes), you must check with the Borough's Building Department. Always confirm with your installer, as they should handle any necessary permitting for their scope of work.
Given the limited local options, vetting is crucial. Seek providers with proven experience in Alaska's interior, and ask for references from within the region. A reliable installer will have a clear plan for material logistics, account for climate factors, and be transparent about their seasonal schedule. Also, verify they carry general liability insurance and, if applicable, a valid State of Alaska business license to operate in the Northwest Arctic Borough.
Costs are higher due to significant freight expenses; all materials must be shipped via barge on the Kobuk River during summer or flown in year-round, adding a substantial surcharge. Limited local competition and the high cost of living for tradespeople also factor in. You are paying for specialized logistics expertise and the installer's ability to complete the job correctly despite remote location challenges, making detailed upfront quotes essential.