Everyone loves a bargain, and so we understandably get asked about promotions and sales, especially around Black Friday and January sales. To be clear: we do not run promotions, we continually work year round to get the price for a given table top specification.
The main reason we don’t offer flash sales etc is we do not retail desk tops from stock. Solid Wood Tops help you create a specification for the table top you need, we then find a partner who is trusted, capable, within budget and available to make your exact order to your exact requirements.
How do we work to get you the best price? Let’s take a deep dive in understanding how Solid Wood Tops are estimated, how size/thickness and wood type are key drivers for pricing. We will look into how other options can increase or reduce the cost like: finishing, edging, shaping, joining, accessorising, samples, delivery and bulk orders. We also explain more about our process for completeness.
How pricing is calculated
Our online calculator gives a transparent and usually very accurate idea of how much your top is likely to cost. Our estimator charges by the amount of wood required plus logistics. The cost is calculated automatically based on the size, thickness, and shape of your requested top. Additional items, such as monitor stands or matching accessories, have fixed costs that reflect the extra workmanship involved. The result is a clear, itemised estimate with no hidden fees or surprises, including any VAT that may be required.
Note: There is no extra charge for Ikea frame compatibility. Holes and plastic inserts where necessary are drilled and added free of charge!
Size and thickness make the biggest difference
The overall size of your top has a major impact on price. Depth, length, and thickness all add to the total volume of timber required, and that’s multiplied across the full dimensions of your order. A deeper desk or a thicker slab will naturally cost more than a smaller or thinner piece, simply because more high-quality material is being used. Our estimator tool helps you adjust these options in real time to see how each change affects cost.
Note: 40mm thick oak is much harder to obtain than 20mm thick oak, 80mm thick oak is again much rarer and difficult to source than 40mm oak, and so the cost for thickness does not not necessarily increase as a linear equation.
Choosing between different wood types
Different species of wood come with different price points. Walnut is the most expensive option our online estimator is set up to calculate, then oak, pine, and plywood provide more and more affordable alternatives. Each has its own look and character, and we only source FSC-certified, sustainably managed timber across all species.
Custom details and finishing options
Adding a custom edge profile, rounded corners, or a stain in a particular colour can influence the price slightly. These custom touches require extra workshop time and finishing, but they’re also what make each top unique. Our estimator lists these options clearly so you can see how they contribute to the final cost.
You can reduce the cost of your top by choosing to have it delivered sanded, unfinished. You can choose to apply a finish yourself for a saving.
Some edge profiles are more expensive than others. Having a very specific edge profile in mind could be costly if the bit is not widely available, for the workshop to buy the bit for your order could cost hundreds of pounds.
Note: adding a custom edge profile to just the front edge could give the comfort/aesthetic you are looking for at a cheaper price point.
Complex shapes and joins
Corner desks, L-shapes, or tops with integrated returns are priced to include the extra workmanship and time needed to join sections seamlessly. Similarly, tops that need to be cut to a particular template or curve attract a shaping fee to create the 3D model for a CNC machine to interpret then use of the CNC machine itself. Simple shapes may be shaped freehand, this too attracts a fee for the workmanship.
Every adjustment is shown clearly on the calculator, so you always know exactly what’s included and what the cost is likely to be.
Optional accessories
Accessories such as matching solid wood grommet hole covers and monitor stands/risers etc can be custom made and finished to match your desk top. These carry an additional charge, which is displayed clearly on your estimate. Choosing accessories from the same wood and finish helps create a consistent look across your workspace.
Ordering samples
Samples are a small but important part of the process. They cost a modest amount to produce and send out, and are ordered along with your estimate to give you a complete cost for the project with no extra surprises.
Ordering samples have the capacity affect delivery timelines. For example, if there’s a delay in receiving the sample or confirming your selection this could have a knock on effect. Learn more using the link below about when to order samples, and perhaps when ordering a sample might not be necessary, saving you money on the quote.
Delivery and shipping costs
Delivery costs are usually straightforward: around £50 for hand delivery or £20 for standard courier delivery.
Generally a desk top will need to be hand delivered, to avoid damage via distribution centres etc, whilst smaller items like shelving can be sent via courier.
These figures are estimates, shown toward the end of the process. For international deliveries, we provide a specific quote based on the size, weight, and destination, ensuring safe and secure transport wherever you are.
Note: You can arrange to pick up the order from the workshop yourself, and save on the delivery fee entirely. This is done once the quote has been finalised and you confirm you happy with the price and the workshop, the next step after placing the original order request.
Bulk and multi-item discounts
With higher quantities, the economies of scale shift, and we can often improve on the standard estimated price for larger or repeat orders. Bulk orders can gauge an estimate with our specialised calculator.
Orders of five or more of the same items qualify for substantial discounts, particularly for commercial projects such as cafés, restaurants, schools, and community facilities. All invoices are VAT invoices, suitable for both business and public sectors.
Our order process explained
Submitting an order request is completely free of charge and without obligation.
Once you place your order request, we send the specification to available, trustworthy and nearby workshops to get a final quote and timescale. The estimate is usually correct, approx 95% accuracy, but there could be extra savings to be made if the partner particularly wants your order. This could be because they have some wood stock, they have another order nearby, their workshop is very close, or they would like your order to make a better bulk purchase of raw timber.
Only if you choose to proceed does the workshop receive your information, and only then is an invoice prepared for you directly issued from the partner. This transparent process ensures you know exactly what to expect at each stage.
Solid wood tops are an investment. By understanding how the above factors can influence cost, we can help you commission a beautiful, in budget, Solid Wood Top that will last for many years to come!
Commission your solid oak top today
Why Solid Wood Tops?
Custom size? Same price.
Desk top prices are worked out using a going market rate formula. There are no extra charges for non-regular sizes. Calculate your price and order in minutes.
FAQs
Learn more about us, the quality of our partners’ sustainably sourced wood, how desk tops are priced, delivery timescales etc. Read our articles, FAQs, or chat now.
Flexible delivery options
Our trusted partners are located around the country. Allow us to arrange delivery, pick up from the workshop yourself, or book your own courier.
Money back promise
Order requests have no cost or obligation. If you do decide to confirm, you are protected if there is a problem with the size, design, quality or wood. Order with confidence.
