Compare the highest-rated roofing professionals in Shishmaref, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As one of the largest and most established native corporations in the Bering Strait region, Sitnasuak's construction division is a primary contractor for both residential and commercial projects. They have the logistical capability, workforce, and deep community ties to manage projects in remote locations like Shishmaref. They are a top choice for major replacements and storm damage restoration.
A well-regarded local Nome contractor known for handling a wide variety of construction services, including specialized roofing. They are experienced with the harsh coastal climate and the specific challenges it poses for roofs. They offer inspections, maintenance, and emergency repair services, making them a good all-around option.
While not a traditional for-profit roofing company, Maniilaq Association provides critical construction and maintenance services for the Northwest Arctic Borough. They are an essential resource for community infrastructure, housing, and emergency repairs in the region, including villages like Shishmaref. For tribal or community-funded projects or for residents seeking services through regional programs, this is a key point of contact.
** The roofing market serving Shishmaref, Alaska, is characterized by its remote, high-cost, and logistically complex nature. There is no local competition within the village itself. All professional roofing services must be sourced from regional hubs like Nome (approx. 100 miles away) or Kotzebue, requiring significant travel, barge, or air freight for crews and materials. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, as contractors operating in this region are accustomed to building for extreme weather, including heavy snow loads, high winds, and coastal salt spray. Metal roofing is the dominant and most recommended material due to its durability and snow-shedding capabilities. **Competition Level:** Competition is low in the traditional sense, as there are only a handful of capable contractors for the entire region. Availability is often the limiting factor rather than direct competition. Projects are scheduled well in advance, especially for the short summer construction season. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is significantly higher than the national average—often 2 to 3 times more. This premium accounts for the extreme cost of material transport, hazardous/environmental pay for crews, limited work windows, and the complex logistics of working in a roadless, coastal community. A standard roof replacement can easily exceed $50,000, with costs fluctuating based on material choice and the severity of the weather during the project timeline.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Shishmaref regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about roofing services in Shishmaref, Alaska.
The combination of high winds, salt spray, heavy snow loads, and freeze-thaw cycles in Shishmaref demands exceptionally durable materials. Metal roofing (like standing seam) is the most recommended and common choice due to its wind resistance, snow-shedding ability, and longevity against corrosion, but it comes at a higher initial cost than asphalt shingles, which are not suitable here. Budget for a premium material; while costs are higher, it prevents frequent, costly repairs from storm damage unique to our Arctic coastal environment.
The optimal and often only feasible window for major roofing work is during the summer months, typically from late June through August. This period offers the most stable weather, with less wind, no sea ice, and extended daylight hours, allowing contractors to work efficiently. Scheduling must be done months in advance, as this short season creates high demand for all construction services in our remote community.
Yes, roofs in Shishmaref must be engineered to meet strict requirements for extreme wind uplift (often 110+ mph) and heavy snow loads (can exceed 100 psf) as defined by the Alaska Building Code. Furthermore, due to erosion concerns and the village's relocation efforts, any major structural work may require coordination with local tribal council and possibly the Shishmaref Erosion and Relocation Coalition. Always ensure your contractor is familiar with and permits for these local and state codes.
Prioritize contractors with proven experience in remote Alaska coastal villages. They must have a clear plan for transporting materials (via barge during the short summer shipping season or air freight) and housing their crew. Ask for local references in Shishmaref or similar communities (like Wales or Kotzebue) and verify they carry Alaska-specific licensing and insurance. A trustworthy provider will transparently discuss the logistics, timeline, and associated costs upfront.
The most frequent issues are wind damage at seams and edges, ice damming at eaves leading to interior leaks, and corrosion from salt air. Prevention involves installing a robust, properly anchored metal roof with sealed seams, ensuring superior attic insulation and ventilation to keep the roof deck cold and prevent ice dams, and specifying corrosion-resistant fasteners and coatings. Regular pre- and post-winter inspections for loose fasteners or sealant failures are critical.