Residential Lightning Protection
A lightning strike to an unprotected home can be catastrophic
- A single bolt of lightning can carry over 30 million volts of electricity. Lightning can rip through roofs, explode brick and concrete and ignite fires.
- In addition to causing structural damage, a single bolt of lightning can wreak havoc with computers, electronic equipment and appliances.
- Every year in the United States, the number of homes struck by lightning increases. According to the Insurance Information Institute, residential lightning losses exceed a billion dollars annually and represent close to five percent of all residential insurance claims.
- *Source Factory Mutual Insurance Co.
Today’s homes are especially susceptible to lightning damage
Metal building components, irrigation and security systems, invisible and electric fences, sensitive electronic computers and appliances are essential components of the modern home. These features can increase a homeowner’s potential for lightning damage. A modern lightning protection system takes all of these systems and features into account, offering a customized approach to protection from lightning damage.
typical residential lightning protection system
How it works
A lightning protection system neither attracts, repels or prevents a lightning strike. The lightning protection system simply provides a safe path for the lightning current to follow – allowing the harmful current to be guided safely into the ground and away from your home.
Lightning protection is not a do-it-yourself project
Lightning protection is a specialty discipline. To ensure that a lightning protection system is installed in accordance with national safety standards – it is important to hire an experienced lightning protection contractor that is listed with Underwriters Laboratories. An improperly installed lightning protection system can be more dangerous than no system at all. Lightning protection systems should be installed by trained, experienced lightning protection specialists – roofers, general contractors and electricians are typically not qualified to install lightning protection systems.
Our Partner:
visit www.sls-us.com to learn about their suite of lightning solutions for special applications