A lightning protection system provides a specific route for lightning to travel around a structure and down to ground, in lieu of penetrating the structure and causing damage.

No, lightning protection does not attract, nor deter lightning. In the event that lightning recognizes a structure as its target, the system acts as a canopy of protection, preventing lightning from destroying or damaging your valuable property.

No, many times lightning side flashes to structures after hitting a tree.

As a general average, the cost for a lightning protection system on a residence is approximately $1.50 per square foot. The architectural make-up of a structure (roof elevations, chimneys, dormers, roof equipment, etc.) determines the cost of the lightning protection system. Each structure has its own specific lightning protection design and installation. This design and installation must meet Underwriter’s Laboratories, Inc., the National Fire Protection Association and the Lightning Protection Institute standards. Lightning protection is a great investment and an inexpensive component of the overall security package available today. It offers peace of mind and proven protection for your family, structure, business, and valuables. Please click here to inquire about a cost-free estimate for your structure today.

Depending on your insurance company, most offer some type of savings. However, while an initial lightning damage claim is paid, most insurance companies will not pay additional claims and will often not renew a policy unless an Underwriter’s Laboratories, Inc. approved lightning protection system is installed.

No, an improperly installed system is very dangerous. Lightning protection is a very specialized industry requiring trained technicians. A properly designed and installed system conforms to all governing standards and recognizes the structure’s design, construction, electrical composition, soil conditions, location and more.

Lightning protection standards (UL96A, NFPA780, and LPI175) require the lightning protection system to be commonly connected to underground piping systems that enter the structure. These include gas piping, water piping, conduits, etc.

This bonding does not introduce lightning charges into your gas and water pipes, but rather routes the charges away from the pipes. We are not substituting the gas pipe for a ground. This connection is to provide common ground potential, reducing the risk of a side flash or arch during a lightning strike.

Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Ltd. uses the architecture of your structure to hide the components of the lightning protection system. In addition, the materials chosen are the best for the aesthetics for your home. For example, since copper wears to a dark finish, it is not conducive to install that material on a white stone home. Instead, our installers would use aluminum or tin coated copper, which weathers to a dull silver to compliment the white stone. A pre-construction meeting will be held prior to installation of the lightning protection system to discuss all of the options available.

Most commonly, lightning protection is inconspicuous and virtually undetectable. However, Bonded offers an array of finial accents, ornamental glass and copper balls, and an extensive line of decorative weathervanes to add beauty and an architectural element to your structure.

No maintenance is required unless your structure or roof changes. These changes may include, but are not limited to, additions, roof renovations, satellite dish installations, etc. Lightning protection systems are constructed of durable materials that are likely to outlast most other fixtures on your structure.

Bonded Lightning Protection recommends an inspection of the lightning protection system after every occurrence of work performed that may affect the system. We want to be certain the system remains code compliant and other trade work has not interfered with the protection abilities of the system. In addition, a general inspection is recommended every one (1) to five (5) years.

Yes, lightning strikes in low areas as well as in higher elevations. Lightning is very unpredictable and does not discriminate as to what or where it strikes.

No, surges often enter the structure through shared utility lines and cannot offer lightning protection. Surge protection devices are an important part of a complete protection system; however, neither lightning protection nor surge protection can completely protect a structure as stand-alone components. Only these two components working together accomplish complete protection from damage caused by lightning.

No, grounding is to assure electrical safety and does not prevent lightning damage. It is merely a part of the entire lightning protection system.

No, antennas are not designed to sustain a lightning strike. Similar to trees, the lightning will side flash to a structure after hitting an antenna. If possible, antennas no longer in service should be removed.