How much water needed to secure the liner

I have decided to replace my liner in the spring. The current liner had to be patched in several spots when I tried to close it. I drained it completely to put the patches on. My questions are:

How much water do I need to refill so that the liner will stay in place and protect the base material for the winter?

If I am not concerned with water quality due to the fact that it will all be emptied in the spring, is there any need to cover the pool for the winter?

Thanks

You need at least 2" of water in the shallowest part of the pool to keep the liner 'set'.

3" would probably be a better level, just in case...:)

No need to cover, as long as no tree branches, etc. might come crashing in and rip the liner.

I think you're doing the correct thing in keeping the liner in place to prevent any (more) damage to the floor - however, given the fact that you had some leaks, retrowelling the floor will probably be necessary before the new liner is installed next spring:mad:

Ted,

I am planning on redoing the bed in the spring when I put the new liner in. I have not decide yet whether to use a pad or fresh sand. Any suggestions?

I've never used the pad, so really can't say. :o

IMO - sand is a good base, but I'd listen to the advice that folks with the pad have to offer ;)