Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A lightning protection system, installed and maintained per nationally-recognized standards, provides structural protection for the building.

No, lightning protection does not attract, or deter lightning. Lightning is looking for the least resistive path to ground. The conductive materials used in a lightning protection system offer a much better path to ground than the structure itself.

No! Wood is not conducive material for lightning. Many times lightning side-flashes to structures after hitting a tree.

It is difficult to give a budgetary price for lightning protection. Pricing is based on the architectural make-up of a structure (roof elevations, chimneys, dormers, roof equipment, etc.). Each structure has its own specific lightning protection design and installation. This design and installation must meet the current standards set by the Lightning Protection Institute, National Fire Protection Association, and Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Lightning protection is a proactive investment and an inexpensive component of the overall safety package available today. it offers peace of mind and proven protection for your family, structure, business, and valuables.

Get In Touch to get a cost-free estimate.

Depending on your insurance company, some offer various types of savings/discount.

While most insurance companies will pay an initial lightning damage claim, they will not pay additional claims and will often not renew a policy unless a lightning protection system is installed and inspected by a third-party inspection company (LPI-IP).

Ask your insurance company if they offer a discount.

No, an improperly installed system is very dangerous. Lightning protection is a specialized industry requiring trained technicians. A properly designed and installed system conforms to all governing standards (LPI 175, NFPA 780, and UL 96A) and recognizes the structure’s architectural design, construction, electrical composition, soil conditions, location, and more.

Lightning protection standards (LPI 175, NFPA 780, and UL 96A) require the lightning protection system to be commonly connected to the underground piping systems that enter the structure. These include gas piping, water piping, conduits, etc. This bonded does not introduce lightning charges into your gas or water pipes, but rather routes the charges away from the pipes.

Most commonly, lightning protection is inconspicuous and virtually undetectable.
Bonded 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 structure. For example, since copper fades to a dark finish, it is not conducive to install on white stone structure. Instead, our installers would use aluminum or tin-coated copper, which weathers to a dull silver to compliment the white stone.

We offer a pre-construction meeting prior to installation of the lightning protection system to answer questions, address concerns, and help you feel at ease.

Maintenance is required if/when your structure or roof changes and/or the lightning protection system sustains damage. These changes may include, but are not limited to, additions, roof renovations, roof top equipment additions, etc. Lightning protection systems are composed of durable materials that are likely to outlast most other fixtures on your structure.

Bonded 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 remain compliant to current governing standards (LPI 175, NFPA 780, and UL 96A) 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 three (3) years.

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

No, surges often enter the structure through shared utility lines; surge protection devices do not offer lightning protection. Surge protection devices are an important part of a complete protection system; combined with a professionally installed lightning protection system,  these components working together accomplish the best possible protection from damage caused by lightning.

No, grounding is to assure electrical safety and does not prevent lightning damage to the structure.

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.