Somerset Hardwood Flooring
Somerset focuses chiefly on red and white oak flooring, along with a smidgeon of Maple and Hickory. Up until recent, all product lines were solid and obtained within their geographic locale deep in the Appalachian region of the USA.
Their engineered lines, all of which were manufactured overseas several years ago (now made in the USA), represent some of the newer collections. At least the company made the right choice in the overall specs of the engineered; going after similar appearance formats to solid. In other words, all engineered products are solid sawn (not the plywood look of rotary peel) with lengths running to 78 inches. They're not the longest in the industry, but overall quality makes up for that small short coming.
Higher Quality Engineered - Ideal For Wide Plank
Another benefit to their engineered hardwoods over common competitors is the thicker veneer or wear layer. A large number of engineered hardwoods manufactured today do not exceed a 2mm veneer. Although the Somerset product is only another millimeter thick, it does make a large difference in refinishing capability.
Looking for high gloss finishes? 2010 saw the addition of a line called just that. High Gloss Collection. While I am not fond of high gloss in general. They do have their place with more formal settings, but should not be considered for active households.
Somerset hasn’t broken into the current rage for heavy distressed type floors, rather they do have a cleaner (fewer imperfections) character grade in their engineered wide plank series. This best suits those that don’t want huge knots, extreme color variation (Hickory can be) and Grand Canyon splits in their floor. Personally I find it refreshing, but that’s my opinion. Available in six and seven inch widths, you’ll also find the finish smooth.
Of all the major American manufacturers reviewed on this site, I find Somerset to be one of the better ones. Being privately owned can make a difference. This is not the type of hardwood you’ll find in any big box store or other discount centers. All products are manufactured in the USA.
▪ Multiple random width options.
▪ Matching stair treads, risers and other millwork.
Ratings- Overall rating
Product Lines- Mostly solid strip to 5" Plank. Some Engineered.
Company Information
WebsitePO Box 1355
Somerset, KY 42501
(606) 678-2842