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The backyard deck is a hot spot for summer living. Here are some ways to keep it lively in summer and beyond.

* Adding a punch of color can have a tremendous effect, starting with the deck itself and extending to furnishings, fabrics and plants. Waterproof stains protect from water damage and add color all in one formula.

 * Solar lighting is an eco-friendly, energy-saving option that requires no wiring or cords, which makes installation quick and easy. You can really light up the night with twinkling LED lights on a deck railing or floating globe lamps spread throughout the yard.

* Repurposing and reusing items is not only a hot trend, but also a great way to save money. Try using old pallets to build an outdoor coffee table; turn mason jars into lanterns. All types of discarded items can be transformed into planters.

* A recent trend has been integrating a television into deck space. Perfect for watching baseball games or a late-night classic feature, televisions can be mounted to the ceiling, wall or planter pole with outdoor TV mounts.

* Fire pits, fire bowls and chimineas continue to be very popular for decks and patios. They’re all designed a little differently, but each allows homeowners to have small, cozy fires on the deck or patio.

Home-Selling Tip

Plant shade trees around your house, such as maple, oak and elm. They’ll help protect your home from the sun and contribute fresh oxygen to your outdoor environment, plus create an aesthetically appealing landscape.

Light’s off in summer

Adjusting the pilot light on your gas stove and water heater can help lower utility bills and cut excess heat that raises the indoor temperature. If you have a gas fireplace, turn off the pilot light during summer.

Decorating Tip

Ceiling decor

Ceiling fans not only help cool a room, but also are a great way to supplement the effectiveness of an air conditioning unit by creating further air flow. While older versions were often cumbersome and unattractive, it’s now easy to find fans that are effective and function as a beautiful addition to your decor.

Garden Guide

Halloween planning

In most parts of the country, now is the time of year to plant pumpkins for harvesting when Halloween nears. Gardeners in far Southern states may do best to wait another week or two. Remember that large pumpkins need a long growing period and lots of water.