Anyone use glass tile as a substrate?

[hobbes4]

Was thinking about this:

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=100079-60692-9049&lpage=none

...anyone know if it's safe to use? I read a few threads about using tile as substrate but nobody mentioned glass.

Or maybe this ceramic tile instead:

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=244394-61-CST011313&lpage=none

I see that some have used ceramic before but how do i know which ones are safe?

 

[glenngreen]

I know ceramic is safe, and I see no reason to doubt that the glass is safe as well. But geez -- $20 for each tile? That's pretty pricey.... I would like to see it as a background rather that substrate.

 

[phillydog1958]

i'm not sure where you're located, but in my neck of the woods, there are many flooring stores that sell only outdated tile that would save you a lot. they are items that are often discontinued and no longer in production. lowes and home depot are often overpriced when it comes to flooring products.

 

[jinkzd]

Actually sounds pretty neat, but I'm sure you can find something similar for a lot less scratch.

 

[hobbes4]

I just used the Lowes site as an example, won't be buying from them. Is the glaze finish on ceramics fist tank safe?

 

[glenngreen]

yes

 

[smpage]

I never understood the allure of making your tank look like your fish are swimming in a flooded hallway. But to each their own!

 

[hobbes4]

^benefits of bare bottom, but looks better...imo.

 

[KaiserSousay]

I never understood the allure of making your tank look like your fish are swimming in a flooded hallway. But to each their own!

Good..that was very good.

Yes the tile would be safe to use, but has the potential of letting debris build up around edges and could get under it as well.

 

[EdCal]

yes glass and ceramic tile is safe for aquarium use just boil it to ensure any cleaning or polishing liquid is removed.

I thought of the same thing but I was thinking break the tile, to form a more natural mosaic pattern, silicone the pieces down, seal the edges and press sand on the silicone edges.

This would have the look of substrate but the effectivity of a bare bottom.