The reason for a Drop Ceiling Tile System
Drop ceiling tiles come in a variety of options. The purpose for utilizing a suspended ceiling grid is to allow access to, and concealment of, electrical wires, piping, and ductwork. The space above the drop ceiling area is called the plenum space.
A common term for the drop ceiling grid is sometimes referred to as the T-bar grid. This is due to the grid-work of metal channels in the shape of an upside down "T". This metal channel setup is suspended on wires from the overhead structure. It is common to see 24"x24" and 24"x48" spacing.
Types of Drop Ceiling Tiles
There are many types of materials used for drop ceiling tiles. Mineral fiber, plastic, wood, and metal are all being sold locally as well as through online retailers. Typical sizes fit common drop ceiling spaces and are made to sit on top of the T-bar.