Sanding is the only option.

there are a few ways to lighten walnut varnished floors without sanding them. One option is to use a chemical stripper. Chemical strippers are designed to remove varnish, paint, and other coatings from wood. Be sure to choose a stripper that is specifically designed for use on floors, and follow the instructions carefully.

Another option is to use a wood bleach. Wood bleach is a chemical that can lighten the color of wood without removing the finish. Be sure to test the bleach in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it does not damage the wood.

Finally, you can also try using a walnut brightener. Walnut brighteners are designed to remove the yellowing that can occur over time in walnut wood. They will not lighten the color of the wood as much as a chemical stripper or wood bleach, but they can make a noticeable difference.

Here are some specific products that you may want to consider:

• Chemical stripper: Bona Traffic HD Wood Floor Stripper
• Wood bleach: Restore Wood Bleach
• Walnut brightener: Howard Walnut Brightener

No matter which method you choose, it is important to wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator, when working with chemicals. You should also test the product in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it does not damage the wood.

It is also important to note that lightening walnut varnished floors without sanding may not produce the desired results. The wood may still be dark, and the finish may be uneven. If you are not happy with the results, you may need to sand the floors and refinish them.

https://attentiondetail.co.uk/decorating-advice-%26-tips

I wouldn’t use any chemical strippers, apart from the fumes it would be a huge, messy job. Dare I say it, but I rather like the bit of floor in your picture. It would look fantastic in a white painted room with a simple neutral rug. If you totally hate it then hire a sander or hire someone to sand it for you. We sanded our floorboards years ago and it wasn’t difficult, just very dusty.

I agree with Attention2detail there are options to avoid sanding but for desired results your probably best sanding. Also, Sonia makes a good point about fumes from chemical strippers.

Personally, I would look at quotes from a professional sander to carry out the work or hire costs for sanding equipment if you choose to do the work yourself.

The third option is to look at a new Engineered Oak or Soild Oak floor to clad over the existing sub-floor, we regularly have customers purchase new floors when they've looked at sanding costs which can be expensive.

At Woodfloors4u we specialise in Engineered Oak and Soild Oak flooring, please see links below to some cost-effective lighter timber options:

1. https://www.woodfloors4u.co.uk/product/natural-oak-150-x-4-15-x-1900mm-brushed-and-hardwax-oiled-classic-wood-flooring/

2. https://www.woodfloors4u.co.uk/product/natural-oak-125mm-brushed-and-oiled-engineered-wood-flooring/

We stock over 100 different wood flooring options.

If you have questions or would like to discuss the project further please feel free to get in touch:

Web: www.woodfloors4u.co.uk

Email: info@woodfloors4u.co.uk

Phone: 020 8500 1940

Thank you all for your advice, I will let you know how I get on