What to use

[JackGillett]

:hi:
Where is the best place to get caves to cut an shape? Ive thought of tiles 'R' us but i dont know if its safe, Is it? What ones are best?
How do you cut it and how do i prepare it for the tank?
Is it safe to get stones from outdoors? What is safe and what isnt and do i have to do any other tests other than the vinegar one?

Thankyou

 

[D-MAC]

Slate is a very safe material to make caves with...I just use an 4" angle grinder with a diamond cutting bade(mine came from Aldi's) to slice it into the sizes I require, then silicon it together...The vinegar test is still the best one to use...Granite is very safe but avoid sandstone and marble as they are calcareous...A water bed tile cutter will also cut the slate for you.

 

[JackGillett]

Thankyou

 

[Zebra Pleco]

a £15 tile cutter from B&Q does th job nicely too.

 

[JackGillett]

I've gone there today, they have rustic black slate uncalibrated for £1.39 per 30cm Squared. Is This safe? Ta

 

[meloizias]

how abotu getting billyjimbo to make them for oyu, it will work out alot easier and proberly cheaper, and he does a really nice job of it

 

[JackGillett]

Might do mate, but id like to get into it and I like the diy side of the hobby, I'd like to make some different stuff also

 

[meloizias]

Aaah fair enough. best part of the hobby

 

[rpp1973]

hey jack do you have a wilkinsons near you? i see they sell slate plant lables in the Gardening section they look the right size to make cave's as they are 2" strips.

I have some oak ones if you want to try them.