skip to main content
Photos
Photos
Advice
Stories From Houzz
Houzz Discussions
Houzz Research
Sign In
Houzz Logo Print
Explore Discussions
RenovatingFlooringDIY
overton_windows

Lightening varnished floor without sanding!

Overton Windows
8 months ago
last modified: 8 months ago

The previous owners used Ronseal varnish - walnut colour - on the worn and patina’d pine floors.

There are plenty of imperfections but I’m fine with that..

But the colour.. it’s so dark and dominating. The house is a dark Victorian mid terrace.. Walnut furniture is beautiful but small doses! Not the whole house!

Is there ANY way to lighten these floors without sanding them? Some kind of chemical stripper or wash?


Comments (5)

  • Daisy England
    8 months ago

    Sanding is the only option.

    Overton Windows thanked Daisy England
  • PRO
    Attention2detail
    8 months ago
    last modified: 8 months ago

    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

    Overton Windows thanked Attention2detail
  • Sonia
    8 months ago

    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.

    Overton Windows thanked Sonia
  • PRO
    Woodfloors4u
    8 months ago
    last modified: 8 months ago

    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

    Overton Windows thanked Woodfloors4u
  • Overton Windows
    Original Author
    8 months ago

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

Sponsored

Reload the page to not see this specific ad anymore

More Discussions
Authentic Feng Shui Workshop - Angel Times Limerick 27th April 2024
0
Interior Material Clash?
0
Help, do i cancel the windows order
1
Further Education & Training Centre Open Day: Interior Design Classes
0
Tiles for open plan space
5
Ireland
Tailor my experience with cookies

Houzz uses cookies and similar technologies to personalise my experience, serve me relevant content, and improve Houzz products and services. By clicking ‘Accept’ I agree to this, as further described in the Houzz Cookie Policy. I can reject non-essential cookies by clicking ‘Manage Preferences’.