Barrel VaultA barrel vault is the simplest of the vaults and is the base design for many vaults that have a more intricate design. It consists of an ongoingseries of semicircular arches. One is directly behind another, causing it to look like a half of a barrel. In some instances, it is described as resembling a tunnel.

Groin VaultA groin vault is created by two barrel vaults intersecting at right angles. The arches of groin vaults are round or pointed. It is also known as a cross vault.

Rib VaultA vault reinforced by masonry ribs is known as a rib vault. When this type of vault has two masonry ribs dividing it into four sections, it is called a quadripartite rib vault. A vault divided by three masonry ribs that make six sections is called a sexpartite rib vault.

Cloister VaultA cloister vault has a domed shape and has a base that is square or shaped like a polygon. It has curved sections that rise from the square or polygon to a centered point.

Fan VaultHalf cones that are fan-shaped are known as fan vaults. The cones meet in the center of the vault.This vault is considered to be a part of the rib vault family.

Net VaultAnother variation of the rib vault is the net vault. The masonry ribs have a complex design that resembles a net.Annular VaultAn annular vault uses the barrel vault as its base. Instead of a straight line, the barrel vault has a ring shape and springs out from two walls that are concentric.

Rampant VaultA rampant vault is a continuous barrel vault where one side is higher than the other. Usually these are used to support or form the ceiling of a stairway.

Catalan VaultThe Catalan vault consists of plain bricks that form a low arch. It is also known as the Catalan turn, timbrel vault, or Catalan arch. It is widely used in Catalonia from which it derives its name.