Compare the highest-rated roofing professionals in Thorne Bay, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Apex Roofing is a highly-rated, full-service contractor based in Ketchikan, known for its professionalism and expertise in handling the demanding Southeast Alaska climate. They specialize in both residential and commercial projects, with a strong focus on durable metal roofing systems ideal for heavy snow and rain. They are a go-to provider for storm damage repair and emergency services for communities across the region.
A well-established local contractor with decades of combined experience, Sourdough Roofing has built a strong reputation for reliability and quality workmanship on Prince of Wales Island and in Ketchikan. They offer a wide range of services from routine inspections and maintenance to complete replacements, using various materials including asphalt shingles and metal.
Rainforest Roof & Repair is a versatile contractor known for tackling a variety of roofing and general exterior repair projects. They are particularly adept at handling the unique challenges posed by the temperate rainforest environment, including moisture control and preventing moss growth. They provide responsive service for both planned projects and urgent repairs.
** The roofing market serving Thorne Bay is specialized and defined by its remote location and extreme climate. There are no dedicated roofing suppliers or contractors physically located in Thorne Bay itself. The market is almost entirely served by contractors based in Ketchikan, who schedule projects on Prince of Wales Island in blocks, often requiring significant advance booking, especially during the busier summer season. **Average Quality:** The quality of work is generally high, as contractors must be proficient in installing robust, weather-resistant systems, primarily standing seam metal roofs, which are the standard for durability against heavy snowfall and rain. **Competition Level:** While there are several reputable contractors, the competition is not high in the traditional sense. Homeowners and businesses in Thorne Bay have a limited pool of 3-5 established companies to choose from that are willing to travel to the location. Availability is often a more significant factor than direct price competition. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is substantially higher than the national average. This is due to the "Alaska Premium," which includes costs for mobilizing crews and materials via barge or air from Ketchikan, higher material costs in general, and the specialized knowledge required for the climate. A roof replacement can easily be 30-50% more expensive than a comparable project in the contiguous United States. Emergency services also carry a significant premium due to the urgent travel and logistics required.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Thorne Bay regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about roofing services in Thorne Bay, Alaska.
Thorne Bay's heavy rainfall, high humidity, and frequent freeze-thaw cycles demand highly durable, moisture-resistant materials. Metal roofing is overwhelmingly recommended here for its longevity (40+ years), superior snow/rain shedding, and resistance to mold and moss. Asphalt shingles, common elsewhere, degrade much faster in this wet coastal environment and are not a cost-effective long-term choice for most homes in the area.
The prime roofing season is typically from late May through early September. This window offers the most predictable, drier weather and longer daylight hours, which are critical for project efficiency and safety. Scheduling well in advance is essential, as reputable local contractors' calendars fill quickly for this short seasonal work period, and material shipments to the island must be planned meticulously.
Yes, you must comply with both the City of Thorne Bay's local building codes and the Alaska State Building Code. Key considerations often include ensuring your roof structure can handle extreme snow loads (which is a critical design factor here) and that any roofing work aligns with local planning and zoning requirements. Always verify with the Thorne Bay City Clerk that your contractor is pulling the necessary permits for the job.
Costs are significantly influenced by "Alaska factors": high freight charges to barge materials to Prince of Wales Island, limited local contractor competition, and the premium for specialized materials suited to the climate. For a full metal roof replacement on a standard home, homeowners should realistically budget between $20,000 and $40,000+, with final cost depending on roof size, complexity, and the specific metal panel system chosen.
Prioritize contractors with a verifiable physical local presence and years of experience on Prince of Wales Island. Ask for references from recent Thorne Bay or nearby community projects and actually contact them. Crucially, ensure they carry both Alaska workers' compensation and general liability insurance, and confirm they have specific experience installing the high-performance roofing systems (like standing seam metal) required for our environment.