using sand on hide?

[Inter5tella]

I had a plan to give my tupperware hides a more desert aesthetic, and I planned to cover them in silicon caulking (As its what I have on hand) then cover that ENTIRELY in sand. Would their be a danger of impaction this way? I figured covering the hides in sand would allow them to grip and climb on top easily, as ive seen people do similar with rocks/gravel. Also, for moist hides, do they need little pinholes on the top to make sure it doesnt get TOO moist or no? I plan to use cocofiber in mine, as I have quite a few blocks of it.

 

[Dinosaur!]

I don't see any issue with using the sand, as long as it is completely adhered to the hides, and doesn't fall off easily. Even if a little bit does come off, it shouldn't pose a danger in that small of an amount. The hides may actually aide your geckos in shedding As for the moist hide, as long as you don't add too much water, you shouldnt have to add more ventilation holes.

 

[Herbiebug]

About that silicone, make sure it is 100% pure silicone. If it is bathroom silicone that has additives to prevent mold, it isn't safe for reptiles. The GE Silicone I is the safe version. GE Silicone II has additives. I ran in to this issue installing bamboo ledges in my arboreal gecko's tanks.

Cool idea. Please post pictures of the finished product! I'm curious how they look.