Which part of a ceiling tile is designed with a tongue-and-groove for easy application?

The correct response highlights that both the tongue and groove parts of a ceiling tile work together to facilitate a secure and seamless installation. The tongue is a protruding edge that fits snugly into the groove, creating a tight joint that reduces gaps and improves the overall aesthetic of the ceiling. This design is particularly beneficial for ease of application, allowing for quicker assembly and less chance of misalignment during installation.

Each component plays a crucial role in the process: the tongue helps to align the tiles properly, while the groove ensures that once the tiles are joined, they remain in place without the need for additional fastening methods. This tongue-and-groove system is an established practice in carpentry, providing structural integrity and a visually appealing finish.

The inclusion of the stapling flange, although not a part of the tongue-and-groove mechanism itself, aids in securing the tile in place, but the primary function of the tongue-and-groove is to facilitate easy installation and create a clean look. Therefore, while the groove and tongue are both essential elements, the stapling flange complements their functionality by offering additional stability. This collaboration among the parts of the ceiling tile is what makes the tongue-and-groove design highly effective for installation purposes.