Question
have these trees ever been known to damage foundations or swimming pools? I have a live oak about 12 ft away from my pool edge. Everything looks good, but I do wonder about what the roots are doing.....

Answer
As long as there is not leak in the pool the roots will not damage the pool. Tree roots seak out water and if there is water present they will grow that way if not they will grow toward a source of water. Usually a pool is surounded by cement walkways and it is dry under the cement so the roots have no reason to grow that way. The main problem you will have is the felling leaves.