What is significant here, is that this saying occurs once earlier, in the exact same words, in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 21:9; compare also Proverbs 19:13; Proverbs 27:15). This underscores that we are dealing here with an important matter.
Apparently, we must, especially in this situation, be on our guard. The risk that in a marriage relationship—that is what is meant by to live…in a house
—things go awry is certainly not imaginary.
To have to live in a corner of the housetop
is extremely uncomfortable. It is drafty there and unprotected, but still, that is better than continually having a quarrelsome wife close by.
Especially such an impossible place (on the roof) must make one think. Should you even let it come to this? When you (continually) fight in the marriage, is that not just barbaric?
The author of Proverbs wants to emphasize this aspect strongly, and he does so more than once. According to God, marriage between a man and a woman is precious. That is why the apostle Paul describes it in Ephesians 5:32 as a profound mystery—it refers to Christ and the church.
In summary, be careful in marriage and together do everything you can to keep it amiable. Do not let this beautiful blessing derail.
24 It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife.