You could use orchid / reptile bark as the substrate , it's a rich dark colour , great looking as well in the viv . Makes your snakes stand out visually . Main thing is it's great for holding and adjusting the humidity - just spray it daily or whatever's needed .
As regards temp . If it's 92F at one end and 70F at the other then presumably it's 81F or near in the middle !?! Anyway if you're experimenting with the heat mat placement it will be interesting to see your temp results . Are you using a digital temp gun ??