How much water needed to secure the liner

[mdenegre]

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

[waste]

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

[mdenegre]

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?

[waste]

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

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