Slate tiles....

[Mads]

I've been reading up on substrates here and a lot of you recommend slate. I'm starting to like the idea of it, but was wondering, where does one go to buy slate tiles... I'm sure you're going to say 'from a tile shop... duh' but I'm concerned about any professional sealants they may use on tiles and if this is bad for BDs, whether I need to go to some specialist garden shop that sells natural slate etc. -Also, once you have your slate, what about getting it cut to size? -for those of you who do have slate, do you take out your slate and scrub it? or do you just spot clean it when your BD defacates?

looking forward to hearing what you have to say.

 

[zebraflavencs]

Lowes ! It doesn't have to be slate, just a textured ceramic tile. And Lowes will cut for free when you purchase from them !
As for cleaning, you can either leave them tightly together, and remove weekly for cleaning in the dishwasher ( no detergent) or the sink. If they are sealed in, then a steamer works wonders !
Janie.

 

[Mads]

Thanks for the quick response Janie! Lowes is an american store? I'm situated in australia, sorry, so any home improvement store? sealed tiles are okay then? cool! thankies muchly for your help

 

[zebraflavencs]

Oh yes, I am sorry, I had no idea you were down under, Mate ! Yes, then check out your local hardware store, for any. Just make sure that they are: Textured ( for nail filing and good purchase for grip) Sealed ( so no waste gets into the tile making hygiene difficult).
There you are ! Oh, and play around with colors too, darker holds more heat. You can find colors that complement your dragon's making it easier to spot him where ever he is, and that adds to the beauty of his enclosure too !
Hope this helped !
Janie.

 

[Mads]

Thanks again for your help, that's exactly what I needed to know, I'm glad about the sealing thing, I was worried that the chemicals in the sealant would be bad for smaller animals (if you've ever been in a house who's floors have recently been sealed, you can understand my concerns! peeew!) I guess it's a different process for pre-layed tiles..

Yes, I definitely like the idea of dark slate. My little one is a red phase, so as it matures I think its colouring would suit a dark substrate. Fingers crossed I can find a hardware shop that will cut to fit!

 

[Ethelia]

HI there,

Im a huge fan of slate tiles. I'll never go back to another substrate now!
Like Janie I dont have mine sealed in either. I have them just slotted in. I have about an inch of extra room which i pack with kitchen towel to make sure its a snug fit, Cleaning is a breeze with tiles. I just remove the offending tile, wipe clean and give a good scrub before replacing it back in the viv. Easy peasy.

Im in the UK so I understand the frustrations. I had alot of "oh just go to Lowes" etc. Hehe. Not everywhere in the world gets free tile cutting!
I went to all the large chain DIY stores and didnt find what I wanted, and ended up stumbling upon perfect tiles in this tiny single-store tile outlet.
Just keep your eyes open Id say!

Holly

 

[Mads]

Thanks guys, I'm totally sold on tiles. now I get to go shopping again! Wheee :lol: