Somerset Hardwood Flooring Prices: A Comprehensive Guide
The Somerset brand is popular for its durable engineered and solid hardwood options. Price considerations include species, thickness, finish, planks per box, and installation requirements. This guide clarifies typical costs, what drives price changes, and how to compare quotes effectively for buyers across the United States.
What Affects Somerset Hardwood Flooring Prices
Price variation arises from species selection, grade, and construction. Common species like oak or maple tend to cost less than exotic choices such as hickory or tigerwood. Finish type—prefinished versus site-finished—also plays a major role; prefinished boards arrive with a factory-applied finish that reduces installation time and labor costs. Plank width and thickness influence material price per square foot and overall coverage. Packaging, scrap allowances, and extra features such as bevels or micro-bevel edges can add to the subtotal. Finally, regional supply chains and current timber costs can shift prices from season to season.
Average Price Per Square Foot
For Somerset hardwood flooring, buyers typically encounter a range that reflects the above factors. The average price per square foot for solid Somerset hardwood floors often falls between $5 and $12, including basic finishes and standard planks. Engineered Somerset options may range from about $4 to $9 per square foot. Note that higher-end species and wider planks can push prices above $12 per square foot, while budget-friendly engineered options can dip below $4. Always verify whether the quoted price includes underlayment, removal of old flooring, and any necessary subfloor adjustments.
Installation And Additional Costs
Labor costs vary by region, contractor experience, and whether a new subfloor is required. Typical installation can add $2 to $6 per square foot for material and labor combined if the subfloor is ready. If underlayment, moisture barrier, or radiant floor compatibility is needed, estimates may increase by $0.50 to $2 per square foot. Removal of existing flooring, floor leveling, and transitions to other surfaces (carpet, tile) are common add-ons that should be priced separately. For DIY-minded buyers, there may be savings, but risk of improper installation can affect warranty and long-term performance.
How To Compare Somerset Flooring Quotes
Effective comparison requires apples-to-apples pricing. Request quotes that specify: material grade (Select, #1 Common, etc.), species, plank width and thickness, finish type, total square feet, number of boxes, installation method, and any included accessories (nails, adhesives, spacers). Ask for a written breakdown of labor rates, removal costs, subfloor preparation, and disposal fees. Check warranties on both the product and installation, as these can add value and mitigate future expense.
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Where To Buy Somerset Hardwood Flooring
Authorized retailers and flooring specialty stores commonly stock Somerset products. Large home improvement chains may carry limited Somerset lines, while regional flooring retailers often provide broader selections and in-house installation estimates. Online catalogs can help you compare real-time pricing and availability. When buying, prioritize suppliers with transparent pricing, verified reviews, and clear return policies. It is beneficial to request samples to evaluate color consistency and finish quality before purchasing large quantities.
Finishes, Grades, And Styles To Consider
Somerset offers finishes ranging from traditional matte to hand-scraped textures. Choose finishes that align with foot traffic, humidity, and lifestyle. Board grades impact appearance: higher grades have fewer visual defects, while lower grades may display more character. Wider planks create a distinctive look but can carry a premium. Engineered options provide better dimensional stability in humid climates, a common concern in many parts of the United States. The final mix should balance aesthetic desires with maintenance expectations and budget.
Maintenance Costs And Longevity
Proper maintenance extends the life of hardwood floors and influences long-term cost. Routine cleaning and protective pads under furniture minimize surface wear. Mid-life refinishing is a consideration for solid hardwood and can restore appearance; engineered floors may require refinishing less frequently depending on wear layers. Budget for refinishing every 10 to 20 years for solid wood, or longer for high-quality engineered constructs. Annual cleaning products, potential coatings, and occasional repairs should be factored into ongoing costs.
Recommendations For Budget-Conscious Buyers
To maximize value, compare a few Somerset options within your color and style preferences. Focus on engineered boards with durable wear layers for a balanced mix of cost and performance. Consider narrower planks if price is a constraint, as they typically cost less per square foot than wide planks. Obtain multiple written estimates, verify installation scope, and ensure subfloor readiness is addressed. If possible, choose a retailer offering bundled pricing for materials and installation to reduce overall costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do Somerset hardwood floors come with a warranty? Yes, most Somerset products include a manufacturer warranty on defects and finish, with installation coverage depending on the installer and region.
- Is installation usually included in the price? Some quotes include installation; others separate labor costs. Always confirm what is included in the per-square-foot price.
- Which Somerset finishes are most durable? Prefinished finishes with multiple protective layers and aluminum oxide or similar durability tend to resist wear longer in high-traffic areas.
- How long does a typical installation take? It depends on room size, subfloor condition, and whether you’re installing solid or engineered planks; a standard room can take one to three days including acclimation and finishing if needed.