Roofs tend to take different designs and sizes. When building a house it is important to know the type of roof and design that will fit the structure. This covering of the building needs planning and choosing the right materials that will last long. Things that should be considered are the durability, and the time it takes to complete. The shapes that are commonly used are arched, conical, pyramidal, cut roof, and barrel-arched.

A roof has parts that should be well fitted to support the house. This starts with the support which can be made of wood, steel, iron or bamboo. The outer layer can be made of grass, split bamboo stems, slate, slabs of stones, cut turf, clay, tiles, copper or lid. Then comes the insulation which can be made as ceiling, or reflective plastic sheeting. These reduce heat and keep the house warm in cold seasons. Drainage should be put to ensure water flows off the roof well. This can be done using drain pipes or by raising part of the roof in a slanted position.