What is Topical Fuming?

Ammonia fuming is a wood finishing process that darkens wood and brings out the grain pattern. It consists of exposing the wood to fumes from a strong aqueous solution of ammonium hydroxide which reacts with the tannins in the wood. The process works best on white oak because of the high tannin content of this wood. Fumed oak is also called smoked oak. Other species may also be fumed but usually will not darken as much as white oak.

Each plank reacts differently to the ammonia, leading to unique shade variations within the same color.

It’s important to distinguish airborne fuming from directly applying ammonia solution to the wood, which can harm the wood’s fibers and doesn’t yield the same subtle patina as the airborne method.

The environment inside the fuming chamber is carefully controlled by Hallmark Floors. However, external factors like humidity and temperature can still influence the internal conditions, leading to shade differences in the wood.

Tannins in the wood are another critical factor. These natural compounds vary depending on the tree’s growth environment and harvest time, impacting how the wood reacts to ammonia during fuming. This reaction can cause significant contrasts in color shades.

Fumed hardwood floors showcase a range of color variations, similar to natural stone, due to the unique chemistry of each board and the presence of tannins. This process, more art than science, enhances the wood’s natural characteristics, resulting in a depth and patina unmatched by other wood processing methods.

Before installation, it’s crucial for customers and installers to discuss color and grading characteristics and to inspect the materials, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the floor’s nature. Schedule a Virtual Consultation with our wood flooring experts, or dial 908-232-6600 for direct support and tailored advice to meet your unique flooring needs.