Tile question

[crayolaskies]

I'm currently using paper towels in my tanks, but I was thinking about switching to tile. I've heard that it's cheaper and easier to clean, plus crix(or geckos!) can't crawl under it. What are your opinions on the best tile to use and your experiences with using it?

 

[ReptileMan27]

I wouldnt say tiles are cheaper or easier then paper towels but not a bad choice. I would reccomend measuring the size of the tank or whatever you are using and getting a the tile you want and getting it cut to fit. I believe they do that at either home depot,lowes,or both.

 

[crayolaskies]

Is there any type of tile that works better than others and about how much does it cost to buy it and get it cut to fit?

 

[ReptileMan27]

Is there any type of tile that works better than others and about how much does it cost to buy it and get it cut to fit?

Well when you say tiles, im assuming you mean floor tiles?, theirs also slate rock which I have heard called slate tiles. As far as how much it costs, couldnt tell you because never did it myself. If you have cracks in the tiles that cricks can get in, you can use play sand and pack it down in the cracks good.

 

[Stitch]

Slate tiles will cost more than paper towels but it should be a one time cost so in the long run it may end up being cheaper. I wouldn't say it's easier to clean either. Spot clean it for a week or two and then take it out to soak in a cleaning solution so you don't get any bacteria growth. Ditto on what ReptileMan27 said about packing crevices with sand so food items can't hide. Try to stick with slate tile it has a rough surface compared to ceramic tiles having a smooth surface (have you ever seen a gecko look like it's ice skating?). I can't help with cost either, sorry.

 

[ReptileMan27]

LOL, that would be funny to watch, they go to catch their food and slide across the floor lol.

 

[Stitch]

Yeah it would be funny. I know you didn't mean it in a cruel sense, but the gecko could very easily hurt a leg or some thing trying to push off.

 

[Scott&Nikki]

I just put tile into my tank because I was tired of crickets crawling under the towels. I went to Lowe's and it is driving me crazy but I cannot think of the name of the slate tile I bought. There was a "tan" and a "green" tile. I got the green but it looks more grey and maroon actually. I needed to buy two tiles to fit the dimensions of the tank and the total bill was somewhere around $3.10. If you have the dimensions Lowe's will cut it for you. I have heard Home Depot does not cut them, but don't quote me on that. Like they said, you do need to pack the areas between the tile and the glass unless you get it cut perfectly (but that won't happen). They still find ways to crawl under if you don't. As far as I can tell, my leo loves it too. I think it is also holding the heat a little better. I highly rocommend it.

 

[Golden Gate Geckos]

Great set-up, Scott and Nikki!