Lightning Protection Solutions for Residential & Commercial Properties. Give us a call today at 321-432-2179
What is a Lightning Protection Rod?
A lightning rod or lightning conductor is a metal rod mounted on a structure the purpose for it is the intent to protect the structure from a lightning strike. If lightning hits the structure, it will preferentially strike the rod and be conducted to ground through a wire, instead of passing through the structure, where it could start a fire or cause electrocution. Lightning protection rods are also called finials, air terminals, or strike termination devices.
According to Lightning Protection Institute “The highly conductive copper and aluminum materials used in a lightning protection system provide a low resistance path to safely ground lightning’s dangerous electricity. These materials and components are UL-listed and specially manufactured for lightning protection. When a lightning protection grounding network is in place, the strike is intercepted and directed to ground without impact to the structure, occupants or contents. A lightning protection system that meets national safety Standards of NFPA 780 and UL 96, UL96A includes strike termination devices, down conductors, bonding, and surge protection. Failure to follow the Standards or use of non-listed materials or methods can result in inadequate protection.”
How does a Lightning Rod give Protection from Lightning?
Lightning protection system has several components. A lightning rod is one of the component of the system. The lightning rod requires a connection to earth to perform its protective function. Lightning rods come in many different forms, including hollow, solid, pointed, rounded, flat strips, or even bristle brush-like. The main attribute common to all lightning rods is that they are all made of conductive materials, such as copper and aluminum. Copper and its alloys are the most common materials used in lightning protection.
What Material are Lightning Rods made of?
The air terminals and cable are typically copper, but sometimes they can be aluminum. All of the air terminals are connected via the cable which has a minimum of two ground rods buried 10 feet below grade. This system is then grounded to both the water pipes and existing ground of the circuit box. The surge suppressor can be connected to the breaker box to cover the entire electric system or they can be placed at individual appliances or electronics.
Lightning Protection Rods
Typically, the only things visible on a lightning protection system are the air terminals, 10″-12″ copper rods, on the chimney and roof ridges. If the system is to be installed on an existing building, every effort is made to conceal the copper cable.
Questions? Fill out the form below to contact us 24/7. We will get back to you within 24 hours.
Contact Coastal Lightning Rods today if you would like us to provide a site evaluation specific for your property in Florida, Louisiana or surrounding areas. We’d be perform a risk assessment for your property to determine the best lightning protection system can be used to protect your building or structure from the devastations of a lightning strike. We provide Lightning Protection Systems for homes, commercial properties, barns, farms, ranch, stables, equine facilities, racetracks, metal roofs and more
29 Years in Business. Home Advisor Screened and Approved.
Where should lightning rods be positioned?
Lightning protection rods should be positioned within 2′ of ridge ends and outside roof corners. Each Lightning Rod should have a two-way path to ground, and one of the cables should have a horizontal or downward path to a ground rod or plate. – ground rods or ground plates should be set at least 2′ away from the structure.
How many rods do I need for my house?
The number of lightning protection rods required is calculated by each “protection cone,” which extends conically from the tip 45° from perpendicular; a 12′′ rod will protect approximately 20′ of roof.
Are lightning protection rods installed on the roof?
Strike termination devices, also known as lightning rods, Franklin rods, or air terminals, are installed along the roof.
Is installing lightning protection rods a DIY project?
The principle of lightning protection is simple, but the requirements for safe lightning rod installation are unique and require knowledge.
What is the size of a lightning protection rod?
Lightning rods are only 12 inches tall and 3/8″ thick. That’s about the size of a pencil. The rods are hardly visible from the ground when placed on a roof 30-50 feet high and 18 inches in from the roof edge.
NO OBLIGATION, FREE LIGHTNING PROTECTION CONSULTATION!
At Coastal Lightning Rods, LLC of Florida, our mission is to protect you and your property from lightning strikes. We can work with you to inspect, design, maintain and install the best lightning protection and surge protection system throughout the state Florida, entire South East, Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast. We provide lightning protection services throughout the state of Florida, entire South East, Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast. We also provide lightning protection in Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee and beyond. Call us today for a free consultation.
Recently Installed Lightning Protection Systems in Florida and Beyond
Testing & Maintenance of your Lightning Protection System
Coastal Lightning Rods provides annual testing of your lightning protection system. We make ensure your lightning protection system complies with the latest regulations and standards with thorough testing and maintenance of existing and installed systems.