Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Selawik, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading provider of windows and doors in Northwest Alaska, specializing in solutions built for extreme Arctic conditions. They are known for arranging transport and installation to remote villages like Selawik, often coordinating projects around the seasonal barge delivery window.
A full-service construction and remodeling contractor based in Fairbanks that frequently undertakes projects throughout rural Alaska. They have extensive experience with HUD and tribal housing projects, which are common in Selawik, and manage the complex logistics of material and crew deployment.
While based in Anchorage, this is one of the largest and most reputable glazing contractors in the state. They supply windows and doors to projects across Alaska, including the Bush regions. They work with local Selawik contractors or city crews to facilitate window replacements and repairs, shipping products directly.
** The window service market for Selawik, Alaska, is characterized by its remote nature and extreme climate demands. There is no local competition, as all services are imported from regional hubs like Kotzebue or major cities like Fairbanks and Anchorage. The quality of service is highly dependent on the logistical skill of the provider in coordinating barge or air freight. The market is not competitive on a local level but is instead a specialized niche for contractors experienced in rural Alaskan work. Typical pricing is significantly higher than the national average due to extreme freight costs (often doubling the material cost), the premium for energy-efficient products required for the Arctic climate, and per-diem costs for installers who must travel to the village. Projects are often planned months, if not a year, in advance to align with the short summer construction and barge season.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Selawik regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Selawik, Alaska.
Given Selawik's subarctic climate with long, harsh winters and significant temperature swings, you must prioritize windows with a very high R-value (insulating power) and low U-factor. Look for triple-pane, gas-filled windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings and thermally broken frames to prevent heat loss, reduce ice buildup, and withstand high winds. These features are non-negotiable for energy efficiency and comfort, as standard double-pane units often fail in this environment.
The optimal installation window is during the summer months, from late May through early September. This period offers milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and generally accessible conditions for contractors to work efficiently. Scheduling in winter is highly discouraged, as extreme cold makes sealing materials less effective, exposes your home to the elements during installation, and poses significant safety and logistical challenges for crews.
While Selawik itself may not have complex building codes, any window installation must comply with the Alaska Building Energy Efficiency Standard (BEES), which sets strict performance requirements for thermal efficiency. Furthermore, if your home is part of a Native allotment or has specific covenants, check with the Selawik IRA Council or local housing authority. Always verify that your installer is familiar with and adheres to these standards.
Costs are significantly higher due to extreme freight logistics; all materials must be barged up the Kobuk River during the short summer season or flown in, adding substantial expense. Specialized, high-performance windows suitable for the Arctic climate also carry a premium. Finally, skilled labor is limited locally, often requiring contractors to travel from hubs like Kotzebue, which increases the project's overall price.
Proper sealing is critical to prevent moisture intrusion, which can lead to mold and, more importantly, thaw and destabilize the permafrost foundation your home may be built on. A qualified local installer will use specialized cold-weather sealants and flashing tapes designed to remain flexible at extreme low temperatures. They must also ensure the window's rough opening is properly insulated and vapor-sealed to protect the building envelope's integrity.