Hi Patty! As far as the tile goes if you put it in at the edge of the silicone that leaves a space you can get your fingers in to lift it out. There will be a little "alley" for stuff to settle but easily syphoned or vacuumed out. Actually the DIY guy says if your circulation is good it should not be a problem. I could just lay some down on one side and see what gathers.
I have not had any issues with algae. I have no idea why since there is a big window a few feet away. I do wipe everything down every other day though. I have a scrubber that I use on the bottom as well- I would just continue that on the tile. Doesn't really give anything a chance to take hold.
The lure of the sand kills me. I love it. I just really like being able to switch on the power head after a feeding and blow everything out from under the driftwood. Lots of food gathers under there. I blow it out, give the fish another minute to snack on any remains and then vacuum. It is just too easy. I give you sand people a ton of credit for being good housekeepers. It shows in your beautiful aquariums. I thought about corys but it was after the fact and I really, really do not want to go through another quarantine unless someone is sick and I have to. That was a huge pain. I wish the Discus suppliers would sell them along with the Discus! Get everyone at once and no QT!
I am still trying to sink that darn piece of wood I got a long time ago. I have it weighted down in a barrel and the darn thing just keeps popping back up every time I let it free. It is a really cool shape though with triangle swim throughs. It also won't allow much junk to gather under. It is narrow and sits up off the floor.
Like our homes, the tanks will never be completely done. That is the fun of it. Like rearranging the furniture in the room. Gives it a fresh new look.
Keep us updated on your progress. Your posts and pics are always a treat.