The most basic form of a vault is the barrel vault, which is simply a series of semicircular arches placed side by side. Other types of vaults include ribbed vaults, groin vaults, fan vaults, and Catalan vaults. A traditional vault is made up of masonry, but more modern vaults may use concrete or steel.

Four common types of vault. A barrel vault (also called a cradle vault, tunnel vault, or wagon vault) has a semicircular cross section. A groin (or cross) vault is formed by the perpendicular intersection of two barrel vaults. A rib (or ribbed) vault is supported by a series of arched diagonal ribs that divide the vault's surface into panels.

The most common styles of vault are barrel vaults and groin vaults. Barrel vaults have a seamless, curved shape and are sometimes referred to as tunnel vaults; groin vaults involve the intersection of two barrel vaults at right angles and have a more complex structure compared to barrel vaults.

Vaults are arched structures usually made of masonry that are used as ceilings or canopies. There are several types of vaults including barrel vaults, groin vaults, rib vaults, and fan vaults. Traditionally, vaults were constructed using stone, brick, or timber arranged in wedge-shaped pieces.