5 DIY Projects Perfect for Summer

The Builders’ Merchant team have been chatting to customers who are making the most of the warm weather by getting stuck into a few practical jobs around the garden. Summer is the perfect time to take on a DIY project – the ground’s easier to work with, paint dries quicker, and there’s nothing quite like standing back to admire a job well done in the sunshine.

Here are five simple but satisfying summer projects, using materials and tools you’ll find right here at Pearsons.

Refresh the Shed

If your shed’s looking a bit green around the edges, summer is the perfect time to freshen it up with a good clean and a fresh coat of paint.

Start by clearing away any overgrown weeds or debris around the base. Then give the whole structure a proper clean – a stiff brush and soapy water works well, but if you’ve got access to a pressure washer, that’s even better. Just be careful not to get too close with the nozzle – you want to lift off dirt and moss, not strip the wood.

Once it’s clean, let the timber dry out completely. This is the ideal time to check for any peeling paint or old treatment that needs sanding back. A light sand will help your new paint stick properly and give a smoother finish.

Now comes the fun bit – picking a colour. Whether you go for a natural wood stain or something bold and bright, make sure it’s suitable for exterior timber. We’ve got a wide selection of paints and stains in stock, as well as rollers and brushes to make light work of the job.

Edge the Borders

If you’re after a simple and affordable way to tidy up your garden, timber edging is a great option. It’s easy to fit, looks good, and gives your borders a neat, rustic finish.

Start by marking out your line with string, then dig a shallow trench around your flower beds or lawn edge. Treated timber boards or sleepers work well and can be fixed in place with wooden pegs or rebar to keep them steady.

Make sure the top edge sits just above soil level – high enough to hold bark, gravel or soil in place, but not so high that it gets in the way. Sleepers are a solid choice if you want something more heavy-duty that you can sit or kneel on while you’re working. The team would be happy to help you find the right timber for your project!

Create a Compost Corner

Composting is a great way to reduce waste and boost your soil – and it’s easy to build a bin yourself.

Choose a level, well-drained corner and build a simple three-sided structure using timber boards or old pallets. Fix the boards to four upright posts with screws, leaving gaps between the slats for airflow. A removable front panel makes it easier to turn the compost or remove finished material.

The Garden Centre team can advise on what to include in your mix and how to get the balance right, while we’ve got all the timber, fixings and tools to get you started.

Paint the Fence

A freshly painted fence makes the whole garden feel tidier and gives it an extra layer of weather protection.

Start by brushing off any moss, dirt or flaking paint. If needed, sand back areas to give a smooth surface. Pick a dry day, and make sure the wood is completely dry before you start painting.

We’ve got a wide selection of wood paints, stains, and preservatives – from natural tones to deep charcoal or even bold colours to brighten up your space. Use a brush or roller on the size of your fence. One or two coats is usually enough, but we can help you choose the best product for your fence.

Make a Raised Bed

Raised beds are one of the most popular DIY projects we get asked about – and for good reason. They’re ideal for growing veg, herbs, or flowers in a manageable, tidy space and can be adapted to suit almost any garden.

We actually covered this in a full blog recently, packed with tips on planning, materials, drainage, and building your frame from scratch. If you’re keen to get growing, you’ll find everything you need here at Pearsons – from timber and brackets to compost at the Garden Centre.

Read our full guide on how to build a raised bed here for a full step-by-step.

Need Help Choosing Materials?

Pop in and speak to the Builders’ Merchant team if you’re planning a summer DIY project. We’ll talk you through the steps, help with measurements and quantities, and suggest the most cost-effective way to get it done.

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