A semi-stone house is a type of urban dwelling that became widespread in Russian cities in the 19th century. The use of wood and stone in construction simultaneously took place in the Middle Ages [​source not specified 405 days]. For example, wood-stone fortresses (Velie) were built in the Pskov land. In addition, the ancient type of urban building in Russia - chambers, as a rule, had from one to three stone (brick) floors, and one or two wooden floors were built on top [​source not specified 405 days]. If stone floors were used for economic purposes, then wooden ones, on the contrary, were used as housing. In the 19th century, brick was produced in small quantities and was expensive. Brick was used for the construction of public and religious buildings. Towns were built up with wooden dwelling houses, and half-stone houses became widespread in the middle of the 19th century. The basement or first floor of such a house was built of stone, and the upper floor was made of wood. This increased the strength of the building and fire safety. Half-stone houses were popular among poor merchants and wealthy townspeople. The roof of the half-stone house was covered with iron, which testified to the wealth of the owner. The roof covered with iron was most often painted red or green.