So much can happen on an exterior...trim, exposed rafters, doors, windows, siding, stone, brick, stucco, roofing, gutters and downspouts....hire an architect or a design/build firm to help answer these questions prior to building....like hiring an interior designer for help with furniture, these professionals will help decide the style of the exterior of the house and how that style interacts with the function of the house.

There are some great asphalt shingle choices that can provide an affordable option to metal roofing. If you want to go metal, a great stylish option is metal slate look. Our clients just chose that for their lakefront home, and it looks great! Here is a picture our roofers shared with me!

vedikaseth Bombay rains are harsh! The one thing you can do is use flexible covers that work similar to roller blinds, and are transparent which allows the light to enter. There are many companies that offer such a product. Just choose one where the installation is easy and taking down the sheets is not an issue once the rains are over. Do keep in mind however that the water will still enter the balcony, you will simply be reducing the force of rains, and will require a water outlet.

Shailesh, Although it is NOT a recommended thing to do but should you install a gympsum board under a water exposed area - Please ensure that 1- The cement board slope is tested for leakages and painted with waterproof lining. 2- Use only Gyproc Glassroc H board for false ceiling 3 - It will be better to use Water proof Grid Ceiling than a regular ceiling for future maintenance and repairs. As there are many finer details, please get it done under supervision of a trained professional. Thanks, Nitin