Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Which hardwood floor to go with?

I'm finally at a point where I can replace the carpets in my home with hardwood floors. I am leaning towards solid hardwood, Hickory in fact. I wanted Maple, but after doing a little research, I think Hickory is a better choice due to the fact of its 'hardness' value (lots of heavy foot traffic) and Brazillian Cherry is out of my price range - I'm budgeting $15.00 per square foot, installed. I also want the hardwood on my stairs. Can anyone offer any advice (good or ohtherwise) about Hickory? I want to have at least 3 contractors come out and give me estimates and references, but I really don't want to waste their time until I have my choice nailed down.
Thanks so much for any help or advice!
~Jen

It is true that hickory is considerably harder than maple (1820 vs 1450 on the Janka hardness scale). The higher the score on the Janka scale, the more resilient to denting. Both species make for excellent flooring choices. In high traffic areas of greater concern is quality of finish and care and maintenance.

Hi:

I was contemplating between Laminate and Hardwood initialliy, till I saw the Hardwood Floor, my neighbour had just installed.She had done Brazilian Cherry, installed for a total of 8$ a square foot ( 5.5 wood and 2.5 labor).

If u shop around also, u might get for under 4$ sq. feet ( I got mine for 3.79 / sft from Ebay and installed it myself, saving 2$ on installation)...

So, I would pick Brazilian Cherry any day over anything else, due to its Hardness ratings and looks.........But, thats just me...

I think Home Depot or Lowes carry these for Spl Order ( at around 6 $ / Sft)...
Or Take my route and buy from an internet retailer..
Type in 'Brazilian Cherry' in google and u get a lot of hits..........

Have fun...sun1974

I personally love Hickory, especially rustic hickory. For sure go with real hardwood, you won't regret it. Besure you pick what you like because you will have it forever. We've been sanding a lot of floors in an old neighborhood and after a hundred years the floors can still look good as new.
I personally don't care for brazilian cherry as flooring in larger areas. Too dark for me and not enough character. Don't pick something just because of the hardness factor. In the long run it won't make that much of a difference unless you let your kids ride their tricycles in the house. Besure to pick the floor you like the best, that's what will make you the happiest.
You won't be wasting anyones time by having some one come by and measure the area and give you suggestions. They will know the current prices and can give you area specific advice. If they make you feel like you are wasting their time then find someone else.
Later
Bryan