Read This Before You Install an Expensive Wood Floor

According to This Old House, different kinds of wood hold up to heavy traffic differently. The hardest woods, like oak or hickory, are better for areas that see a lot of action from people or pets. Black cherry or black walnut, which are softer, are good for low-traffic spaces. It's probably a good idea to choose a different material altogether for bathrooms and basements, where humidity will wreak havoc on wood.