
Many varieties of trees and large shrubs consume vast quantities of water. For example, some experts report that one large pine tree can remove as much as 30 gallons of water from the soil daily. If trees and large shrubs are located in close proximity to the foundation, excessive moisture loss can result. This will allow the soil to contract and the foundation to settle. In some areas trees grow with a very shallow root system which can cause heaving of a foundation.
When homeowners notice a tree in close proximity to a foundation problem, a common misconception is that the tree's roots must be pushing up on the foundation causing cracks. While this is possible, it's more uncommon than a tree drawing water away from the foundation and causing erosion. A tree root pushing up will often cause buckling near the bottom of the wall, and the bricks will often push out, showing an obvious buckling. In most cases, however, the typical signs of foundation failure occur, suggesting foundation settlement rather than buckling.
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