As the long Florida summer begins to ease and the first hints of fall arrive, it’s the perfect time for residents in Celebration to prepare their homes and yards for the season ahead. While we may not experience the dramatic leaf changes of northern states, fall in Florida brings its own set of seasonal shifts, and a few simple steps can go a long way in maintaining safety, comfort, and curb appeal.
Check Your Landscaping
This is a great time to evaluate your landscaping. Trim back overgrown trees and shrubs and refresh mulch in your landscape beds. Not only does this boost your home’s appearance, but it also helps prevent debris from becoming a problem during fall storms. If you have seasonal plants, consider switching to hardly fall-friendly varieties for color and structure through the cooler months.
Gutter and Roof Maintenance
Falling leaves can clog gutters quickly, especially for homes near mature trees. Take time to clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. While you’re up there (or hiring a professional), it’s wise to check the roof for any loose or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks during a rainstorm.
Lighting and Safety
With shorter daylight hours ahead, check all exterior lighting for functionality. Replace bulbs where needed and ensure walkways and entries are well lit. This improves both safety and security as the days get darker earlier.
Driveway and Sidewalk Awareness
As part of seasonal upkeep, please ensure that when parking in your driveway, especially for smaller or horizontally parked vehicles, the front or rear of the vehicle does not extend over the sidewalk or into a common easement. Also, remember that parking on the grass is not allowed. These small efforts help preserve both accessibility and the appearance of our community.
General Home Check
Take a walk around your home and look for any needed exterior touch-ups, peeling paint, loose shutters, or worn caulking. Addressing small maintenance items now can prevent bigger issues down the road.
Let’s Keep Celebration Beautiful
Every homeowner plays a role in preserving the charm and beauty of Celebration. By preparing your home for fall now, you’re helping maintain the community’s high standards and ensuring a safe, pleasant season for you and your neighbors.
Please remember: Any exterior changes inclusive of landscape design changes require an ARC application to be submitted for review. However, like-for-like replacements, such as replacing plants with the same type, do not require approval.
Happy Fall, Celebration!