Question
I will be planting oaks in my small backyard.  Which one has a better root system that I will not have to worry about future foundation problems to my newly built home.  Also, how far from the house should these be planted?  And far from each other or other trees (I have a 2 fruit trees in my backyard already) should they be planted?  

Answer
Cindy, As for the root systems, I don't think that one is better than the other. Tree roots do not damage house foundations on there own but if they find a crack in an old foundation then they can be a real problem. I would plant them 20-30 ft away from the home and away from each other. I like red oaks more than live oaks but both are fine choices. So as long as your foundation is not already damaged and you plant the tree's a good distance from the home, you should be fine. I am not sure what your question regarding the fruit tree's is but if you mean "should you plant the oaks with fruit tree's already there"? Then I would say that as long your yard is big enough then there should be no problem. Good Luck! Gary Overton