replacing vinyl liner / pool construction questions

[MissAlabama]

Thanks so much, Janet!

We're actually in Mobile -- so Mardi Gras is a big deal here, so I may use that little tip as well.

The wrinkles were here when we moved in (as were the bleached out spots from the trichlor pucks) and haven't gotten any worse since we moved in, so I imagine they are both a product of the previous owner's care (or lack thereof -- it was a foreclosure, and they took as much care of the house as they did the pool!).

This is all VERY helpful and makes me feel better. The pool maintenance company we were using last year was pushing hard to get us to put in a new liner, but based on your responses, it sounds as if we don't have to until we either have a problem or want to.

[Poconos]

To add a little to what Janet said about floating the liner. As soon as the water level in the pool goes below the ground water level the thing can float. So, if you do need to drain some to dilute water or for whatever reason try and do it when the surrounding ground is dryest.
On the main drain and light, they are another source of leaks and problems. A main drain makes keeping the water cleaner easier and lights are nice. If I ever get the ambition I'd tap into the skimmer line and add valves and a suction feed just off the pool deck so I can hook a homebrew thing to drop in the deep end and perform the function of a main drain. Take it out when the pool is occupied.
Al