Houses in Bermuda have white stepped roofs to harvest rain water and store it as the island has no fresh-wayer, springs, rivers or lakes.

The steps slow down the rain water. The steps are made of limestone which is not easily shifted during hurricanes. The limestone mortar has antimicrobials properties. The white color reflects the ultraviolet light from the sun helping to purify the water. The white paint is also used because it is easy to tell when it’s dirty. The roof is repainted every two years

The annual rainfall is similar to England and fairly consistent throughout the year. This makes each home self-sufficient and there is no water bill.