Tree roots can cause significant damage to your pond liner, so it's important to address the issue promptly. Start by identifying the source of the roots and consider trimming or removing the tree if it poses a significant threat. However, this may not always be feasible, especially for large or valuable trees.
If removal is not an option, you can create a physical barrier by installing a root barrier made of thick plastic or metal around the perimeter of the pond. This barrier should extend several inches above and below the ground to effectively prevent roots from invading the pond area. Inspect the pond liner regularly for any signs of further damage, and repair punctures or tears as soon as they are discovered. Reinforced geosynthetic pond liners, such as RPE, are more resistant to root intrusion that other materials, and nonwoven geotextile underlayment can provide additional protection.