F.A.Q

LIGHTNING PROTECTION FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Don't lightning rods actually attract lightning?
A. No, they neither attract nor repel lightning. In the event of a strike, a protection system simply creates a pre-determined path of low resistance to ground, facilitating a harmless discharge of the lightning strike.

Q. Our home is grounded; doesn't that protect us?
A. No, a house may be grounded to assure electrical safety; however, grounding is not intended to prevent lightning damage.

Q. Our antenna is grounded; doesn't that protect us?
A. No, an antenna is not designed to handle a lightning strike and, instead, allows dangerous current to enter the home.

Q. Don't our trees protect our home?
A. No, many times after trees are struck, the lightning is side-flashed to the house.

Q. Can't we install our own lightning protection?
A. No, an improperly installed system may be dangerous. Lightning protection is a very specialized industry requiring trained technicians. A proper system takes into account your home's design, construction, electrical components, soil condition, location and more.

Q. Won't it ruin the aesthetics of our home?
A. No, the system can be concealed within the walls during the construction stage. For existing homes, conductors can be semi-concealed.

To verify that your installer is UL Listed, call the Follow-Up Services department at UL's office: www.ul.com/lightning