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As the first layer of water protection for your roof deck and the building materials below, underlayment is designed to prevent water damage, so it’s okay if it gets wet. However, you shouldn’t rely solely on underlayment for protection. If rain interrupts your roof project and you have all of the underlayment down, you’ll likely be fine, but you should install shingles over that layer as soon as possible, as long-term exposure can lead to water damage.

The best way to ensure the ground next to your home’s foundation drains properly is to divert water away from it as much as possible. While a flood wall can stop water from entering the house, gutters and spouts can help direct rainwater and melting snow away from the foundation. Keep your gutters as clear as possible from dead leaves and other yard debris so they can effectively divert water from your house. Add extenders to the spouts so the water runs out and away from your home, not into the surrounding soil.

Yes, basement insulation needs a vapor barrier due to its susceptibility to moisture seeping in from the outside of the house. You should install a moisture barrier before you install insulation or purchase insulation that comes prebuilt with a moisture barrier to avoid water damage in your insulation and costly mold and water remediation expenses. 

Several types of insulation are effective for crawl spaces, with spray foam and rigid foam boards being two of the best options. Closed-cell spray foam insulation is a strong choice because it effectively repels moisture, resists biological growth, seals the air, and provides excellent thermal protection, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Rigid foam insulation boards are another excellent material as they insulate well, resist water damage, and will not settle over time like fiberglass or cellulose.