I would like a bit more research on this. IMO, tree roots can acerbate a foundation problem but will not actually push the foundation until it cracks. Trees in conjunction with poor soils, drought, existing cracks in a foundation etc. can compound or cause a problem…but simply pushing until it cracks is not likely.
When I managed the construction for the local Habitat for Humanity, we had houses donated that were usually problem houses.
One of which had a basement caving in. And after we moved the house off the basement to another location, we dug out the basement and it was for sure from the oak trees adjacent to the house that the basement caved.
So, it can and does happen. from my experience.
I agree with Larry;
Tree roots can damage your foundation in two ways: when they come in direct contact with your concrete foundation or if they absorb too much moisture in the soil below your home.
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Direct damage – If the roots crawl against your foundation, their slow movement can lift, break, or crack your concrete. If you hit your concrete foundation with a stick, it probably won’t do any damage. But if a root presses against it and slowly grows larger, the tedious movement can damage your foundation over time.
Can Tree Roots Damage Your Foundation? | The Real Seal LLC.
So now we have two scenarios. It might not directly affect newer foundations, but it sure can create older foundations that are already cracked and compromised.
That was my take. The OP image may be a bit misleading. It appears to me the illustration shows a tree pushing a foundation until it cracks. (which aligns with the narrative).
I found a similar “blog” as JR. I have been looking for something more definitive such as an engineer/scientific study.
https://edensstructural.com/when-trees-attack-how-tree-roots-damage-your-foundation/#
I once had to use a chain saw to cut out an 8" diameter tree root behind an older basement wall on a flip house. There was a maple tree about 15’ from the home which was approximately 4’ in diameter.
Contrary to popular belief, InterNACHI has found that tree roots cannot normally pierce through a building’s foundation. They can, however, damage a foundation in the following ways:
- Roots can sometimes penetrate a building’s foundation through pre-existing cracks.
- Large root systems that extend beneath a house can cause foundation uplift.
- Roots can leech water from the soil beneath foundations, causing the structures to settle and sink unevenly.
Question: Can tree roots cause damage to a home’s foundation? | Purdue Extension Forestry & Natural Resources Tree roots can damage a house foundation, with an invitation to do so.
Tree roots are opportunistic. They seek out water in soil. Root systems “drink” water from the soil, drying it out and creating voids under the foundation. If the home sinks into these voids, it will lead to expensive foundation repairs.
As well, tree roots can load forces laterally on a foundation wall causing cracks.
Please do not get Mark Anderson here.