Protect Your Home From Erosion and Landslides in Carmel, IN
Soil plays a major role in our lives in more ways than one, not only to nourish crops that produce food we eat but also as sturdy foundations to keep our homes standing. Anything that threatens the condition and stability of that soil also endangers our way of life. This includes erosion and landslides.
While these natural phenomena are more common along mountain ranges and on the West Coast, they also can happen in our backyard in the Midwest.
This article explains erosion and landslides in Carmel, IN, including the causes, effects, and how to prevent foundation damage and protect your home.
Understanding Erosion and Landslides
First, let’s begin by explaining the soil-based problems of erosion and landslides.
- Landslides: Defined by the movement of rock, debris, or earth down a sloping area. Also known as mudslides or rockslides.
- Erosion: A process where the earth is worn away and transported by naturally occurring forces like wind and water.
As you can see, both are closely related and involve moving soil.
Digging Deeper Into Our Soil
While many areas throughout Indiana are rich in expansive clay-based soil, silt is another prevalent material in the earth. Appropriately named, our city also contains Carmel silt loam. Silt is generally well-drained and is more prone to erosion and washing away.
Silt loam is also predominantly found along the banks of the White River along the eastern border of Carmel. Various types of silt loam are frequently flooded and eroded here.
Landslides Along the White River: Can They Happen?
From picturesque parks and waterways, Carmel is a charming Indianapolis suburb situated just north of the city. More than 100,000 people call Carmel home, and the city was also named one of Livability.com’s Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S., 2024-2025.
Protecting Carmel and its residents is crucial, especially from earth movement and floodwaters.
Carmel has a major risk of flooding in the next 30 years, due in large part to issues with bodies of water like the White River and approximately 42 inches of average annual rainfall.
However various measures are in place to help safeguard the city and prevent landslides. Riverfront land was donated to help combat erosion, and the Indiana Geological and Water Survey at Indiana University is assessing landslide risks across the state.
While landslides along the White River at Carmel have not been documented, several landslides near trails, parks, and forests have occurred in southern Indiana within the last few years. Hence, landslides in Carmel, IN, are not out of the question.
Erosion, Landslides, and Homeowner Impact
Soil erosion and landslides have the power to change landscapes, moving the earth from one place to another. This also affects standing structures.
Your home’s foundation depends on the underlying soil as an enduring base. However, this soil can erode, wash away, settle, and suffer during drought and floods, rendering it unstable. Your home will no longer have the support it needs, and it will sustain various damage.
Common Foundation Problem Signs
Signs of soil-based foundation damage include:

While these problem signs are visible at any stage, they are more common as structures age and sustain wear and tear. Many Carmel homes were built in the 1990s or before, making them prime candidates for these issues.
If you live at the top or bottom of a hill, vigilance and safety are key, as you could experience a significant impact from landslides in Carmel, IN.
How to Protect Your Home
If you notice any of the problem signs we listed above, it’s important to contact a foundation repair professional like Indiana Foundation Service as soon as possible. We’ll assess your home’s foundation and recommend solutions tailored to meet your specific repair needs, including:
- Helical piers
- Push piers
- Slab piers
- Crawl space support jacks
- Wall repairs (braces, anchors, and support straps)
While each product has its own application and purpose, all of them are expertly engineered to provide permanent foundation stability and protection.
Trust Indiana Foundation Service With Your Repair Needs

Landslides in Carmel, IN, may be rare, but it’s important to be prepared. Erosion is the more common culprit of home damage in the area, and it’s crucial to address these problems at the source.
Our team at Indiana Foundation Service has more than 30 years of experience with diagnosing, repairing, and protecting homes in Carmel and throughout Indiana. You can count on us for unmatched customer care and lasting solutions. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection!
Foundation Repair FAQs
The cost varies based on the extent of the damage and the chosen repair method, such as basement waterproofing or foundation repair solutions. Indiana Foundation Service offers free inspections and estimates to outline your options, as well as various financing options.
Foundation piers are usually the most effective option to address foundation settling and sinking. The specific pier used will depend on the extent of the damage and the type of foundation your home has. For a free inspection to determine the best repair solution tailored to your home, contact Indiana Foundation Service.
In most cases, foundation repair is not covered by homeowner’s insurance. However, if the damage is caused by a covered peril, such as a burst pipe, your insurance may cover the repair costs. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
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