Slate rocks and sanitizing?

[TheBeard9789]

Hey guys found these slate rocks stored away in my closet would I be able to break them and put them under the basking light? I'm just trying to get something I can put under the basking light to hold heat (acrylic decor).

Also if I can use them then how would I go about sanitizing them?

(Just noticed that they have paint on them so that may be a deal breaker)

 

[xp29]

You can put them in the oven for 20 minutes or so at 200-220 degrees. Or you can put them in the sink and soak them in 200ish degree water till it cools. The water may cause it to seperate though being slate. If you go the oven route, place it in the oven while cool and let it warm up with the oven, it's less likely to break apart that way. Let it cool slowly also.

 

[xp29]

Oh one more thing, don't get it wet and then put it in the oven, that will almost certainly make it come apart. Slate it pretty soft and kindda fragile.

 

[TheBeard9789]

Oh one more thing, don't get it wet and then put it in the oven, that will almost certainly make it come apart. Slate it pretty soft and kindda fragile.

Would having paint on it matter? I'm unsure how to get it off I think I may try to put some bricks and build a platform and ditch the acrylic.

 

[xp29]

It sounds like the slate has been stored for some time, the paint should be completely cured, as long as it isn't giving off fumes it should be ok.

 

[TheBeard9789]

It sounds like the slate has been stored for some time, the paint should be completely cured, as long as it isn't giving off fumes it should be ok.

The slabs have to be 5-6 yrs old I think originally it was my brother's unsure what it was used for though. And yes no fumes nothing like that I could even try to scrape it off but I'm not sure if it'll crack the slab

 

[xp29]

Might try lightly sanding with sandpaper if your concerned with it. Just be sure to rinse the dust all away.