Fuming, also known as smoking, of Oak is a process to accelerate the natural ageing patina of Oak flooring. In a specially prepared fuming chamber the Oak flooring is exposed to a high concentration of Ammonia. When Ammonia comes in contact with the surface of Oak it has an effect on the Tannin content of the material, turning the Oak surface darker.

The resulting shade depends on varying factors such as the quantity of Oak in the chamber, the Ammonia concentration, the exposure time and the Tannin content of the Oak. Fuming only works on wood types with Tannin content. Because of the varying tannin content there will always be a range of shades within the floor, creating a beautiful, natural variety across the floor. Sapwood however, does not contain any tannins and does not change colour. The occasional lighter streaks enhance the natural variety even more.

Fuming can be done in degrees and we commonly talk about Single, Double and Triple Fuming. The differences between them are based on the amount of time the Oak remains in the special chamber.

As almost all wood types and finishes change colour over time, fumed finishes lighten up after installation and exposure to daylight.