(ARA) - The National Association of Home Builders says that in 2009 overall home improvement project budgets are shrinking, while low-cost improvements are growing in popularity with both resident homeowners and landlords who want to give their properties a little added boost.

Solar powered post lights on this deck look great and are easy to install.

One popular improvement is outdoor lighting, and today there are more options than ever. Deck lights, post lights and recessed lighting are easy to install and offer a low-cost upgrade that turns popular daytime spaces into usable evening entertainment space.

"Today the more practical the upgrade, the better, and lighting is an easy addition that creates instant function, ambiance, and value," says Jay Savignac of Aurora Deck Lighting. 

Taking your backyard deck or patio from daytime roost to night time entertainment space is easy. In fact, there have never been more product options available to homeowners for lighting up their deck or fence, and creating an inviting and usable outdoor area for night time enjoyment.

Savignac says homeowners can easily install outdoor lighting in just one weekend, or even less time if they opt for lights that don't require wiring, such as solar options.

Best of all, outdoor lighting products can be installed without the aid of an electrician and, in most communities, no permits are required.

To read all of the options to light your patio or deck, please click adding deck lights