Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Kake, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, family-owned business based in Petersburg, which is the closest significant service hub to Kake. They are known for their reliable service, emergency response, and expertise in both residential and commercial systems, making them a primary choice for Southeast Alaska communities.
A well-established contractor serving Southeast Alaska from Juneau. They have a strong reputation for handling complex installations and major projects, and they routinely dispatch technicians to outlying communities like Kake for scheduled and emergency work.
A larger, full-service mechanical contractor that provides comprehensive plumbing, heating, and process piping services. They have the resources and manpower to undertake significant projects in remote locations and are experienced with the logistical challenges of working in communities like Kake.
** The plumbing service market for Kake, Alaska, is defined by its remote, island location. There are no dedicated plumbing companies physically based in Kake itself. The market is entirely served by contractors from larger nearby cities, primarily Petersburg (approx. 30 miles by air/ferry) and Juneau (approx. 100 miles by air/ferry). This reality significantly impacts service dynamics. Competition is regional rather than local, and availability is contingent on weather, ferry schedules, and flight availability. Emergency calls typically incur high travel surcharges and may face delays. The average quality of service from the providers that do serve the area is high, as they are accustomed to the unique challenges of Southeast Alaska. Pricing is substantially above the national average due to travel time, freight costs for parts, and the high cost of living, with service call rates often starting at a premium before work even begins. Residents often plan non-emergency work well in advance to coordinate with a contractor's travel schedule to the island.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Kake regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Kake, Alaska.
Plumbing services in Kake are typically more expensive due to the high cost of transporting parts, limited local supplier options, and the "bush" travel premium for technicians who may need to come from other communities like Petersburg or Juneau. The harsh, wet climate also means specialized materials resistant to freezing and corrosion are often required, adding to material costs. Homeowners should budget for these logistical realities.
The paramount concern is preventing frozen and burst pipes during winter freezes, which requires proactive insulation of pipes in crawl spaces and along exterior walls. The best time for a full system check and preventative maintenance is in late summer or early fall, before freezing temperatures set in. This allows time to address any vulnerabilities, such as insulating pipes or servicing your heating system, before the challenging winter conditions arrive.
Yes, Kake is within the Kake Coastal Management Zone, and any work near the shoreline may have specific permitting requirements to protect water quality. Furthermore, many homes use individual wells and septic systems, which must comply with Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) standards; repairs or replacements of these systems require proper permitting and siting to protect the local ecosystem and groundwater.
Prioritize plumbers or companies based in Southeast Alaska with proven experience serving remote communities; they understand the travel logistics and common regional issues. Verify they hold a current Alaska Journeyman or Master Plumber license and carry adequate insurance. It's also wise to ask for local references in Kake to confirm their reliability, response time for emergencies, and familiarity with the specific challenges of homes in the area.
If you suspect frozen pipes, immediately shut off the main water valve to prevent a burst and apply gentle heat (like a hairdryer) to the frozen section, starting from the faucet end. To prevent recurrence, ensure all pipes in unheated spaces are insulated with foam sleeves or heat tape, and maintain a consistent low heat in your home during extreme cold snaps. For a long-term solution, a local plumber can advise on re-routing vulnerable pipes or installing a monitored temperature alarm system.