Hi Dan - Here's what the Intex website says about leaving the pool up all year: We recommend storing your pool during the winter. Your pool is designed to be easily emptied and stored in a dry, warm place. If you choose to leave your pool up year round in areas where freezing temperatures occur, there is risk of ice damage. It is recommended to drain, disassemble and store the pool in a dry, warm place when temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius)
Hi Dave - Here's what the Intex website says about levelling: If the area is grass, the ground must be prepared for installation. We suggest you dig and level the ground by pouring a layer of 2" concrete. If you don't want to concrete your ground, you must hire a contractor for the ground preparation (see owner's manual).
I don't mind tearing the pool down and setting it back up each year, if it's something I can do in about a day. That would be worth it to me to extend the life of the pool. Especially since I'm considering the model that comes with the wood grain look enclosure. I will be paying a rather large markup anyway for esthetic appeal, but it would be worth it if I can make the pool last for several years. Even five years would be ideal. Regarding the levelling, I've read a lot about people using foam, and I think that sounds ideal. I've also seen a lot of videos where people just place a tarp over the dirt. However, I'm not sure why the Intex website suggests concrete unless it has something to do with the wood grain enclosure model???? Thanks for your replies!!!