Summer is in full swing, and it’s one of the most popular times for home improvement projects. But the lazy weather and extra sunlight won’t last forever. Before the temperature drops and the leaves start cluttering up your yard, you should get all your outdoor projects done. Here are a few DIY home improvement ideas that can make this your most productive summer yet.

Build a Fire Pit

Fire pits are a popular backyard edition. They can be built on the lawn or patio, and give you that wonderful feeling of being out in the woods roasting marshmallows without having to plan a camping trip. They’re a quick and relatively painless installation, usually taking only an afternoon. So long as your residence allows open fires, there’s no reason you shouldn’t have a beautiful fire pit to show off to all your guests.

Put in a Fountain

A nice water fountain can make any home look more expensive, but you don’t actually have to pay through the roof for one. In fact, you can install your own garden fountain in as little as a day. The styles and possibilities are endless, and the process is easy to understand. So go crazy with it and build a unique, personal fountain that no one else can claim to have. Just remember that, depending on your materials, you may need to seal some or all of your fountain with silicone to keep it from being damaged by the constant contact with water. Silicone Depot can hook you up with the right kind of 100% RTV silicone caulk..

Exterior Lighting

Another simple way to improve the curb appeal of your home is to put in outdoor lights. Some faux lanterns on the wall next to the front door or perhaps lining the walkway is a good place to start. Many people also enjoy lights on their decks or in their gardens. Adding some extra lights not only makes your home look more expensive, but it has the practical bonus of letting those afternoon soirees in the backyard last well into the night. Outdoor lights can also be protectedfrom rain and other water damage with proper sealants so you can get their full lifespan before they need to be replaced.

Don’t let the summer slip away from you. Get out there and cross those home projects off your to-do list in time to enjoy them for the rest of the warm season.