FYI, Spring Update:

Our 18' Metal Frame Intex has been up all winter and so far, so good! I do see a few seams that have a slight moisture building up on the bottom outside liner. I'm going to patch them up.

I think we'll have at least another year with this pool!

So, it DID survive the cold NJ winter! (There wasn't that much snow this year).

Also, any advice on using the Scotch clear duct tape over the patched seams? Will that give me extra reinforcement?

Thanks!