Matt_LFC: Ytong blocks (14. Mai 2011 09:46)

Hi, is this the stuff i need to carve for my ants nest? Not 100% sure so help would be appreciated.

http://www.wickes.co.uk/bricks+blocks/blocks/icat/bbblock/

bugsy: Re: Ytong blocks (14. Mai 2011 10:08)

Yes mate I use the aerated ones from wickes. Never had any problems.

Matt_LFC: Re: Ytong blocks (14. Mai 2011 10:39)

Thanks for your help bugsy, i take it the best one would be the top one. Not the medium density or dense aggregate.

What do you put on top of the block, acrylic or glass?

Thanks

bugsy: Re: Ytong blocks (14. Mai 2011 11:51)

Yeah the top one is best. I use acrylic, just wash all the power off after making the chambers before you put it on tho. The fine powder will kill the colony if its left in there.

Matt_LFC: Re: Ytong blocks (16. Mai 2011 13:09)

I would love to see what the best method to keep part of your block wet is? Maybe some has a few pictures...thanks.

bugsy: Re: Ytong blocks (16. Mai 2011 16:02)

Scan through the forum. sub-section building a farm. Many pictures and ideas there.

SteveUK28: Re: Ytong blocks (17. Mai 2011 09:16)

I agree with bugsy there.. there is a sticky on ytongs and making a leg... I always use the leg method instead of a well, I did try it once but it just does not work as good as a leg :)

If you do need any help mate just give me a shout ive made tons of ytongs :D

Matt_LFC: Re: Ytong blocks (17. Mai 2011 12:08)

Thanks for your advice, i was thinking of standing the block on its side (not sure whether the ants would like that) and put a little trough in the top to allow the water to soak down in to the block.

The leg idea i have already tried but im not sure if the water will soak up in to the nest area and plus i don't want to crack the block. If this is the best method though i might try it again.

SteveUK28: Re: Ytong blocks (17. Mai 2011 14:43)

Well considering blocks are only like 99p.. you have nothing to loose lol.. I usually decide what tub im using.. usualy a TakeAway tub.. then il mark it up on the ytong.. Drill it out... and then chisel the rest ill the leg sits in the tub nicely... I have one now for my Myrimica colony.. il get some photos for you :)

Matt_LFC: Re: Ytong blocks (17. Mai 2011 14:55)

Thanks that'll be great, i wasn't worried about the price of it, its the fact i have already spent 1-2hours making the caves for it so to go and crack it would be annoying.

I have now 90% completed both blocks and i have got the plastic coming in the next few days for the outside tank. Cannot wait, then i just gotta get the ants and i still don't know what species!