Tree roots and foundations can interact, but the relationship is more complicated than roots simply breaking through sound concrete. Soil type, moisture, existing defects, species, distance and foundation design all matter.
Roots follow favourable conditions
Roots proliferate where moisture, oxygen and space are available. Existing cracks, leaking drains and disturbed soil can influence root growth.
Soil movement can matter
On some shrinkable soils, large vegetation can influence soil moisture. Foundation movement should be evaluated by an appropriate building or engineering professional rather than diagnosed from the tree alone.
Do not cut major roots casually
Removing large structural roots can destabilize or stress a tree. Root work near a mature tree should consider both the construction objective and tree stability.