Ah, summer: Fun-filled family picnics, days spent relaxing in a comfy chaise lounge chairs and the slow pace of school-free days. What is there to do but sit back and enjoy the warm, sunny weather? Well, if you’re like 60 percent of the population — plenty! That’s how many people reported they’ll be embarking on home renovations and remodeling protects this summer, according to the Zillow Digs Summer Home Improvement Trend and Spending Survey.

Fact is, summer is a great time for home improvement, both inside and out. Warm weather means homeowners can have comfortable access to outdoor portions of their homes that are difficult to maintain and upgrade during cold winter months, and it also means homeowners are taking a fresh look at their outdoor areas, seeking new ways to enjoy them during pleasant weather.

If you’ve been bitten by the remodeling bug this summer but you’re not sure where to start, these projects will give you ideas that can add to both the value and comfort of your home.

Embrace the Warmth: Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits

From a simple fire pit to a full-out Adirondack-style stone fireplace, adding a fire feature to your backyard creates a focal point for entertaining and a place for impromptu hot dog roasts. Fireplaces and fire pits can also help extend your outdoor season by providing much-needed warmth as autumn’s cool breeze moves in.

Look up: Trellises and Arbors

Even small yards can grab some of summer’s colorful blooms by adding trellises and arbors. These structures are also great for defining spaces and creating outdoor rooms. Use arbors at entryways to garden areas or place a bench under an arbor for an inviting and shady place to sit. Look for vines that are native to your area for best results and ease of care.

Invite Some Wildlife: Fountains

Birds love the sound of trickling water and installing a small fountain is a project that’s well within the capabilities of even the most tool-phobic homeowner. Unlike still ponds, moving water doesn’t attract mosquitoes which need a calm surface for their larvae. Installing a fountain near an outdoor power source eliminates the need to bury electrical lines or you could always opt for a solar-powered unit.

Party on: Patios and Decks

Whether attached to your home or constructed in another area of your yard, a patio or deck is a great way to create an outdoor room and provide an anchored spot for casual entertaining. Choose a design and materials that complement your home and look for materials that offer easy maintenance.

Protect your Investment: Install a Wireless Security System

Summer is an ideal time to upgrade existing security systems or install new ones. Today’s wireless home security systems are simple to install and can be managed from a cell phone or tablet, which means you can keep an eye on your home’s security no matter where summer’s travels take you. A wireless security system can even let you unlock and lock doors when your kids get home from school, which means security systems are also an investment in peace of mind.