Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Akutan, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Northstar is the leading hardware and building supply store in the Aleutians. They are the primary source for windows, doors, and all construction materials for the region. They do not have a dedicated "window installation" division, but they facilitate the entire process by supplying the products and working with or recommending local, trusted contractors for the installation and repair work. Their strength is their deep inventory of products suited for the harsh Aleutian environment.
UniSea is one of the largest seafood processing plants in Dutch Harbor. Crucially, they operate an extensive maintenance and facilities department that undertakes significant construction and repair projects, including window installation and replacement, on their own massive facility and associated housing. For large-scale commercial or multi-unit residential projects in Akutan, they are a key player with the necessary manpower, equipment, and logistical expertise to operate in the region.
While based in Anchorage, Alyeska Contractors is a well-regarded general contractor that specializes in projects throughout remote and rural Alaska. They have a proven track record of mobilizing crews and materials to challenging locations like the Aleutian Islands. They are a top-tier choice for custom residential and commercial window projects in Akutan, offering full-service installation and repair from planning to completion.
** The window market in Akutan is highly specialized and unlike a typical mainland city. There are no storefront window companies within Akutan. The market is entirely driven by remote logistics and the extreme environmental demands of the Aleutian Islands. * **Average Quality & Specialization:** The quality standard is very high out of necessity. Windows must be engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds, driving rain, salt spray, and potential impacts from airborne debris. Triple-pane, laminated glass, and heavy-duty aluminum or fiberglass frames are the norm, not upgrades. Energy efficiency is critical due to high heating costs. * **Competition Level:** Competition is low in the traditional sense but high in terms of capability. Very few contractors have the logistical skill and willingness to take on projects in such a remote location. The "competition" is between a small pool of highly capable entities from Unalaska or Anchorage. * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is significantly above the national average. Costs are driven by three factors: 1) The premium cost of shipping windows and materials via barge or air freight to the island, 2) The high cost of specialized, robust window products designed for severe weather, and 3) The elevated labor rates for skilled tradespeople who work in remote and challenging conditions. A standard window replacement project can easily cost 2-3 times what it would in a temperate urban area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Akutan regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Akutan, Alaska.
Akutan's harsh, wet, and windy climate demands windows with exceptional durability and performance. You should prioritize impact-resistant glass to handle wind-driven debris, triple-pane glazing with argon gas for superior insulation against cold and wind, and corrosion-resistant frames (like fiberglass or vinyl-clad) to withstand salt spray. Proper installation with robust weather sealing is non-negotiable to prevent air/water infiltration.
In Akutan, a full home window replacement can range from $1,200 to $2,500+ per window installed. This is significantly higher than the national average due to the extreme climate requiring specialized, high-performance windows, the high cost of shipping materials to the Aleutian Islands, and the potential need for contractors to travel from other communities, which adds substantial labor and logistics costs to the project.
The optimal installation window is during the late spring to early fall months (May through September) when weather is less severe, allowing for safer working conditions and proper sealing of installations. The process for a typical home can take 2-5 days, but you must plan for significant logistical lead time (often several weeks to months) for ordering and shipping the windows to the island before work can even begin.
Yes, you must comply with the Alaska Building Code, which adopts strict energy efficiency and structural standards for regions like the Aleutians (Climate Zone 7). You will likely need a permit from the City of Akutan or the Unified Village of Akutan. It's crucial to hire a contractor familiar with these codes, which dictate requirements for wind load resistance, thermal performance (U-factor), and potentially seismic considerations.
Prioritize contractors with proven experience in remote Alaskan installations. Ask for references from similar island or coastal projects, verify their licensing and insurance, and confirm they understand the logistics of working in Akutan (transport, accommodations, weather delays). Local recommendations from neighbors are invaluable, as is choosing a provider who offers strong warranties on both the product and their installation labor.