Lightning can cause a huge amount of damage to properties

Lightning is a natural phenomenon caused by electrical charges in clouds. The discharge of energy can move between two clouds that have an opposite charge or it can strike a tall object in the area, particularly if it is made of metal. In some cases the energy strikes the ground directly and dissipates. Lightning has the potential to cause a great deal of damage to properties and has even been known to start forest fires and other widespread problems.

Deciding whether a property needs protection against lightning is very tough because it is extremely difficult to accurately predict where it will happen in advance. High rise properties are at the most risk, especially those that are the tallest in the area. Buildings with aerials and other metal rods extended above their roofs will also be susceptible to strikes should conditions occur.

The best way to protect a property is to have a lightning protection system fitted by professional steeplejacks. Systems include lightning rods that extended above the roof to attract energy should a discharge occur, a linked network of cables to allow the electricity to flow safely away from the property and grounding anchors so the energy can safely be grounded. The system creates a Faraday cage around the property so lightning will strike harmlessly.

Protection systems need to be bespoke to suit the property they are protecting. They are scaled in line with the size of the property and will seek to give electricity the fastest path to ground possible. Lightning rods need to be positioned at the highest points to they will be struck rather than any other part of the property.

Investing in lightning protection is good for the security of your property, particularly if your location and the size of the structure put you at risk. If you want a bespoke system designed and installed by trained professional steeplejacks, we are well equipped to help. Years of experience working on properties of every scale across the UK and Europe have given us a wealth of knowledge that we are keen to share. Alongside the design and installation we can also offer periodic maintenance and testing.