- Rocks and stones: Rocks and stones were readily available in many regions, and they were used to build walls, floors, and roofs of homes. Stone houses could be very durable, and they could provide shelter from the elements and from predators.
- Wood: Wood was also a commonly used material for building homes. Wood was used to construct frames, walls, and roofs. Wood homes were often less durable than stone homes, but they were easier to build and could be moved more easily.
- Animal skins and hides: Animal skins and hides were used to make tents, tipis, and other temporary shelters. These shelters were easy to transport and set up, but they were not very durable and could not provide as much protection from the elements as stone or wood homes.
- Mud and clay: Mud and clay were used to build houses in some regions. Mud and clay homes were relatively easy to build, and they could provide good insulation from the elements. However, mud and clay homes could be damaged by heavy rains and flooding.
- Caves: In some cases, early stone age peoples lived in caves. Caves provided natural shelter from the elements and from predators. However, caves could also be dark and damp, and they could be difficult to defend against attack.