Looks like the last post here was a couple years old, but I tried something that I am happy how it turned out. I am new to Leos but I have been reading a lot in books, online and here. I wanted something in my tank that looked natural, wasn't slippery, and wouldn't possibly endanger Anna and Emmy. I bought this item from Amazon
Amazon.com : Universal Rocks 30-Inch by 18-Inch Rocky Aquarium/Reptile Rigid Foam Background : Aquarium Decor Rocks : Pet Supplies
I cut it to fit snug in the bottom of my 20 long, It takes a bit of effort to cut, but a utility knife works well. I put a layer of sand in the bottom of the tank, then placed this on top of that. I put a strip of material across the bottom of it with an end sticking out a little on each side since it fits so snug, I wanted a way to lift it out if needed.
It looks like natural stone, is washable, is not slippery like tile can be, and is holding the heat well. It is running 90 degrees and the ambient air is running 86. I am using a UTH and a red heat light. Here are some pics. I don't have my girls yet, but wanted to try this out first to make sure it would work. I wanted to make sure it could handle the heat and also that there wouldn't be any fumes once it heated up. I am very happy with it. You do have to wash it really well when you get it and the directions say to do so also. Otherwise, you will end up with black hands.
Also, I still need to put in the two hides my sister is bringing me with the babies. The one in there is the wet hide.
