Is it wise to remove wed. cake steps when closing

[traceyb]

Just wondering if it is a MUST or not to take the steps and pad out during closing/winter months? I understand the rails (which won't be put on anyway till next season) have to be off for covering, but I wanted some advice on this.
Thanks again all........Hope to see some advise again.

[AnnaK]

They'll probably crack when the water freezes if you leave them in.

[traceyb]

They'll probably crack when the water freezes if you leave them in.

What part of the US are you talking? I live in southern illinois and the wintery weather is pretty mild.
It does hit below freezing sometimes, but not too often. I will probably take them out anyway then?????????

[matt4x4]

It all depends on the amount of ice you could get in a worst case scenario - if it's an inch or less, I would not take them out.

[AnnaK]

Looking at the average temperatures recorded at Williamson County Regional it was below 30 F from January to the end of March this year. If it were my pool, I'd take the steps out.

[CarlD]

I ALWAYS remove my steps at the end of the season (which sadly is fast approaching). I store them in my shed and replace them in the spring.

I just don't want a problem like broken steps or worse, a torn liner.