Lightning Strikes in The Villages

[Michael 61]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

[Rainger99]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

How many people have lightning rods on their houses? Ballpark, what did it cost? Do you think it was worth it? Do they work?

I would think you would get a discount on your insurance if you had them.

[Bill14564]

My impression is strikes are rare, maybe once per year.

I haven't heard of a house with lightning rods being damaged. On the other hand, there are tens of thousands of houses without lightning rods that also have not been damaged. Probably an inexpensive way to hedge your bet.

To be effective a lightning rod system needs to be installed correctly. Make sure to vet the company you buy from.

[UpNorth]

If your next door neighbor has lightning rods, you're in luck....

[Stu from NYC]

If the Sun had a living, breathing editor interested in reporting the news info on it will be in tomorrows paper

[Altavia]

Here's a previous thread:

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/lightning-protection-systems-332808/?highlight=Lightning

[tophcfa]

There is a reason the Tampa Bay professional hockey team is called the Lightning. The imaginary line between Tampa and Daytona Beach is the lightning belt capital of the country, and the line goes through the Villages. Being on a peninsula, sandwiched between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, makes for frequent and unpredictable pop up lightning storms during the warm tropical summer months. It’s my least favorite thing about the Village’s given that my favorite two activities are lap swimming and golfing. Being submerged in an excellent conductor of electricity like water, or in an open area swinging a lightning rod, are both very dangerous activities. Oh well, I can think of worse ways to have my number called.

[Laker14]

I was watching the Women's Amateur golf event that they play at Augusta, the week before the Masters, last year, during a storm when KABOOM!!, that simultaneous noise and flash that tells you you've been hit knocks me just about out of my chair, and the TV goes "pphhhffftttt....".

My next door neighbors were away, but when they returned my neighbor says to me "hey, look at this.." and on the other side of his house there was a nice chunk of stucco missing.
Neither of us have lightning rods.
He had no issues with his electronics.

[rustyp]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

Bird cages = a major attraction for lightning strikes.

[firefighter4u]

info on lightning: Lightning is not attracted to metal: Top 5 myths of lightning... (https://www.ajc.com/weather/lightning-not-attracted-metal-top-myths-lightning-strikes/KO5ylAzpyu396KKbzCqgkK/)

[asianthree]

I know of one home that was struck by lightning, on their moving day. All classic cars in the 4 car garage, furniture in place, boxes not yet unpacked. Tired, they went to grab something to eat, storm came in while they were out. Lighting struck, home, classic cars, total loss, along with losing their pet. Since 07 it is the only home I knew of personally, that lightning destroyed a home. I am sure there have been others, but this home in our circle of people.

So yes it does happen, but with the thousands of home in such a large area, it’s just bad luck. Nope we don’t have lighting rods

[CoachKandSportsguy]

I know of one home that was struck by lightning, on their moving day. All classic cars in the 4 car garage, furniture in place, boxes not yet unpacked. Tired, they went to grab something to eat, storm came in while they were out. Lighting struck, home, classic cars, total loss, along with losing their pet. Since 07 it is the only home I knew of personally, that lightning destroyed a home.

now that is some sort of bad luck!

Have been in a top floor of a business building in Boca when lightening hit the rods above us. . . Big loud snap!

[golfing eagles]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

There is a house on the left side of #5 on the Amelia 9 at Mallory that had severe damage from lightning maybe 6-9 months ago---it is still under reconstruction, but getting there.

[Bogie Shooter]

If the Sun had a living, breathing editor interested in reporting the news info on it will be in tomorrows paper

That’s soon enough for me……..::

[manaboutown]

In Deltona: Roofer killed by lightning strike in Florida | wtsp.com (https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/regional/florida/roofer-killed-by-lightning-strike-in-central-florida/67-f218e505-1241-4369-a9ae-c4455a81dc79)

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

A metal roof is one of the safest options in an area prone to lightning strikes. So your architectural shingles will be useless when lightning destroys your entire house, and my double-wide with a metal roof will be the one blown away by the hurricane.

[margaretmattson]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

I have been coming to the villages since 1999. I have heard of lightening strikes and homes burning down more times than I can count. Not many, one every two years maybe, but it most certainly does happen! Mind you, I am not a full timer. I do not know the exact numbers.

Once, while renting a cyv in 2017 at sumter landing, a lightening strike blew the appliances in the home. ( air conditioner, garage door opener, water heater, sprinklers etc). Not only in the home I was renting but in several of the villas in close proximity. The owner called a repairman who quickly came to fix the air conditioning. As you can imagine, the house was hot!

While he was fixing the issue, I asked him how many calls like this he receives. His. answer shocked me! Quite a bit he said!

I then asked why this happens. He said homes are very close. When lightening hits one home it usually causes damage in other homes on the same side of the street. He said he believes the lightening travels through the sprinkler systems. That would be his best guess.

A few days later, the garage door repairman told me I was lucky the house did not burn down. Terrified, I asked if that happens frequently. He answered yes, but usually in homes with natural gas.

I then asked what the natural gas had to do with it. He said the lines run through the attic. If there is a spark, the home is going to burn down for sure.

As the other repairemen came to fix the issues, they each had similar stories. Yes, they are kept quite busy with lightening strikes.

I asked a few neighbors about their homes. One told me his wife smelled something burning and it was his printer in the spare bedroom melting. Another said he lost a/c, while another said his refrigerator stopped working.

It was then that I began to notice many villagers have lightening rods to protect their homes. I realized this must be a much bigger problem than I can imagine. People wouldn't purchase lightening rods if they do not feel they need them!

Since my experience at LSL, I have never rented a home with natural gas. I wouldn't be able to sleep at night!

A myth that natural gas is exactly the reason a particular home burns down, or lightening travels through the sprinkler system, MAYBE, But, I experienced a lightening strike and it MOST CERTAINLY DOES HAPPEN. Don't wish to scare anyone, just telling my story.

[Taltarzac725]

I have driven by three houses in this area that were struck by lightning. Or, at least, burned down. I would have to research the reasons but there were stories about them in The Villages Daily Sun.

[JudyLife]

In 2022 we used Triangle for rods on our villa. About $1500, worth our piece of mind.

[Rainger99]

Interesting article on lightning rods and one on insurance claims for lightning strikes.

Should I Install a Lightning Rod? | Mr. Electric (https://mrelectric.com/blog/should-i-install-a-lightning-rod)

Facts + Statistics: Lightning | III (https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-lightning)

[bowlingal]

If you have lightning rods installed, and then you need a new roof, what happens? Does the roofing company reinstall the rods, or do you have to call the installer? Also the same question pertaining to solar panels? Satellite discs?

[Lightning]

If you have lightning rods installed, and then you need a new roof, what happens? Does the roofing company reinstall the rods, or do you have to call the installer? Also the same question pertaining to solar panels? Satellite discs?

This is the 21st home to be destroyed by lightning since 2004. None had a lightning protection system. There are many myths included in this thread.
There will be a free non-commercial educational lightning presentation at the POA meeting on Tuesday June 20th, 7 PM, at Laurel Manor. The subjects to be covered:
Personal lightning safety outdoors and indoors
Lightning induced surge to appliances and electronics
Lightning protection systems commonly called lightning rods
Debunking a bakers dozen common myths about lightning

[Oneiric]

If your next door neighbor has lightning rods, you're in luck....
Do your homework. You already know lightning doesn't always strike the tallest trees in the forest. We have lightning rods and the house immediately next to ours was hit.

[Michael 61]

Would you need ARC approval to add a lightning rod to your home?

[Kelevision]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

A quick google search will tell you this…

Nothing can guarantee your home won't get hit, because 5% of the structure fires in Florida are caused by lightning strikes; that means nearly 2,500 every year across the state.

But I can also say, being born and raised here that I’ve personally, nor has anyone I know, ever lost their house due to fire but i have seen plenty of trees fall on houses due to getting hit.

[GizmoWhiskers]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.
There is a home near Sumter Landing, near the Village of Caroline, that burned down a couple of years ago. Lots of lightening rods on homes in that area now. Great business opportunity for someone out there. I doubt all those neighboring homes got ARC approval to add them.

[crash]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

Lighting strikes are more common than you would think. In the last few weeks there have been news stories about 2 people struck by lightening as well as the house in Linden. Many more people can tell you about fried electronics from nearby strikes.

My house came with lightening rods because a house on our street was hit with lightning and burned down. Len Hathaway know as mister lightening lives in my neighborhood and gives frequent talks about lightening protection. I recommend A1 lightening protection services he will come out and give you a free estimate. He has done over 5,000 homes in the Villages.

If you belong to the POA they have articles about lightening protection by Len. Not sure if you can access past articles in the Daily Sun but he has done articles there also.

[Altavia]

This is the 21st home to be destroyed by lightning since 2004. None had a lightning protection system. There are many myths included in this thread.
There will be a free non-commercial educational lightning presentation at the POA meeting on Tuesday June 20th, 7 PM, at Laurel Manor. The subjects to be covered:
Personal lightning safety outdoors and indoors
Lightning induced surge to appliances and electronics
Lightning protection systems commonly called lightning rods
Debunking a bakers dozen common myths about lightning

This is a very informative presentation, highly recommend.

I've noticed critical infrastructure buildings in The Villages have lightening supression systems. Pump houses, fire stations, office/sales centers, etc.

Has any association been observed with metallic natural gas lines in the attic? Or the vertical steel gas pipe that runs from the meter to the attic?

That corner of the garage looked like the point hit in several recent local strikes. Concrete block walls are even cracked/damaged from the strike near the gas meter.

[crash]

There is a home near Sumter Landing, near the Village of Caroline, that burned down a couple of years ago. Lots of lightening rods on homes in that area now. Great business opportunity for someone out there. I doubt all those neighboring homes got ARC approval to add them.

Don’t need arc approval to add lightening rods or satellite dishes or tv antennas.

[Altavia]

...

But I can also say, being born and raised here that I’ve personally, nor has anyone I know, ever lost their house due to fire but i have seen plenty of trees fall on houses due to getting hit.

Now you do.

[crash]

If you have lightning rods installed, and then you need a new roof, what happens? Does the roofing company reinstall the rods, or do you have to call the installer? Also the same question pertaining to solar panels? Satellite discs?

You would need the licensed installer to put them back on more than just bolting on rods involved.

[Misky1951]

How many people have lightning rods on their houses? Ballpark, what did it cost? Do you think it was worth it? Do they work?

I would think you would get a discount on your insurance if you had them.

I had rods installed around 10 years ago . The cost was $2500. Definitely a peace of mind. No discount on insurance. I just checked again (I ask every year). There are very informative presentations given in TV. After I attended one, I decided to install them.

[allsport]

I was watching the Women's Amateur golf event that they play at Augusta, the week before the Masters, last year, during a storm when KABOOM!!, that simultaneous noise and flash that tells you you've been hit knocks me just about out of my chair, and the TV goes "pphhhffftttt....".

My next door neighbors were away, but when they returned my neighbor says to me "hey, look at this.." and on the other side of his house there was a nice chunk of stucco missing.
Neither of us have lightning rods.
He had no issues with his electronics.

I lived in the midwest and saw 3 different houses hit and 2 of the 3 burned. What I learned from that experience was if you are hit call the fire department. Two of the houses thought they had no damage. One called the fire department and had some damage that was smoldering under the siding and did not burn. The other one did not call the fire department and four hours later the top floor of the house was burning out of control. No matter what, call the fire department and let them check it out.

[ThirdOfFive]

Lightning doesn't always play by the rules. Back in Minnesota as a teenager I went to get the mail (driveway maybe 50 yards long), got the mail out of the mailbox, turned around to walk back to the house and BOOOM! The thunder, huge flash of light and a hot wind hit all at once. It had hit and destroyed the mailbox. I was no more than 20 feet from it when it hit. Even with my back turned the flash when the lightning struck the mailbox was impressive.

Forest line maybe 30 feet in back of the mailbox, power poles nearby, storm still miles off...yeah. Obviously nobody had informed this lightning bolt where it was supposed to hit.

[HJBeck]

Very scary. Had lightning rods installed on our roof this year.

[NotGolfer]

It's said FL is the "lightening capital of the world".........at the "get acquainted" seminars they'll talk about this. They also warn about being outside as well when a storm is approaching. IF you hear thunder (and it can be far away) lightening is a possibility to strike. It astounds me how many golfers are out and the sky is very dark with thunder and they aren't running for cover. No, I don't mean under a tree neither. Years ago, when we lived in the upper midwest, I knew a couple who'd lost loved ones to lightening on a golf course. It was said they went to get out of the rain under a roof (maybe a starter shack) and both got struck and died, leaving a young family. Reports are mixed here, on whether lightening rods are needed. I've read BOTH "for AND against" the need. Maybe call one of the fire stations and ask.

[eeroger]

How many people have lightning rods on their houses? Ballpark, what did it cost? Do you think it was worth it? Do they work?

I would think you would get a discount on your insurance if you had them.

We and many neighbors have had lightning rods since we moved here in 2011. Our house has been struck at least once and a couple of friends houses have also been struck in other neighborhoods without any damage. Two years ago the house across the street from us was hit causing a fire and other electrical damage. They do not have lightning protection. It depends on your risk tolerance, whether you need/want them. The cost is between $1500-$2500 depending on the size of the home. Insurance companies "may" give a discount.

[Wondering]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.
You/we live in the lightening capital of the US. Twenty years ago when they ran gas line into the attics and lightening hit a house, it would burn the entire structure if wood framed and entire roof if it was block and stucco. Then they went to all electric. So, if you have plastic gas lines in your attic, you will be susceptible to serious damage if hit by lightening.

[mikeycereal]

Since last year I find myself not liking lightning storms. Rain is fine. Funny I never worried as much about those back when I was renting. :shrug:

Florida is the #1 state in lightning density with 285 events every square mile. Though Texas is #1 with lightning strikes with over 18 million!

Thinking about getting a rod...

[sowilts]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.
Any more news, we live at Linden and are currently at Maryland?

[CoachKandSportsguy]

We and many neighbors have had lightning rods since we moved here in 2011. Our house has been struck at least once and a couple of friends houses have also been struck in other neighborhoods without any damage. Two years ago the house across the street from us was hit causing a fire and other electrical damage. They do not have lightning protection. It depends on your risk tolerance, whether you need/want them. The cost is between $1500-$2500 depending on the size of the home.

the cost is equal to one year's home insurance premium for lifetime of protection against the worst type of bad luck, very random very bad luck.

I also have the NOAA weather app with lightening strikes enabled, and the app dings all day out of TV. I had it ding one day with strikes within 20 miles of TV and it was sunny with puffy clouds where we were golfing. With modern technology and notifications, I always have it going when down in FL.

My first trip to FL was a business trip to Ft. Lauderdale in the early 90s. I was watching the morning news and a story came across of a woman killed by lightening while pushing her grocery cart to her car.. .


I'm in for rods

[Ritagoyer]

I had rods installed around 10 years ago . The cost was $2500. Definitely a peace of mind. No discount on insurance. I just checked again (I ask every year). There are very informative presentations given in TV. After I attended one, I decided to install them.
How often do you have to get them checked? I was wondering how often they need recertification to make sure they work.

[dewilson58]

How many people who have rods in TV, have been hit with lightning??

[tophcfa]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

It’s not all bad, at least they are getting a new roof without scamming the insurance company : )

[Hockeyguy]

If the Sun had a living, breathing editor interested in reporting the news info on it will be in tomorrows paper

It was in the DS with a picture as well.

[TedfromGA]

If you have lightning rods installed, and then you need a new roof, what happens? Does the roofing company reinstall the rods, or do you have to call the installer? Also the same question pertaining to solar panels? Satellite discs?

Call the lightning company that installed the system. If you don't know then call Danny at A-1 Lightning Protection. He (his company) is very good.

[golfing eagles]

How often do you have to get them checked? I was wondering how often they need recertification to make sure they work.

Seriously????

40 years ago on Long Island there were 2 guys going around offering to "recharge" your lightning rods for $100-----With inflation taken into account, I'd be glad to "recertify" lightning rods for let's say $400. Of course, the hard part is getting lightning to strike them so we know "they work".

[TedfromGA]

We installed them - A-1 Lightning Protection, Danny Mack. 352-465-0620. So far we haven't been hit. Home Insurance company does not give a discount.

Justification - if you look around at the commercial buildings in the squares you'll see most are protected by lightning rods. Same for the Brownwood Speciality Center and Hotel. Seems like a reasonable thing to do for $1500 to $2000.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

How often do you have to get them checked? I was wondering how often they need recertification to make sure they work.

Since the only answer you got so far was snark, and just in case you were serious:

A lightning rod isn't a device that needs to "do" anything to work. It's just a metal rod that sticks up from the top of the dwelling, connected to a grounding rod stuck in the ground, so when lightning strikes, it zaps itself down the rod to the ground instead of hitting the building itself, thus reducing the risk of damage to the building.

It's sort of like that third prong or the little grounding wire that sticks out of the side of some older plugs. It only needs to exist, in order to function, no certification or maintenance needed.

[jrref]

How often do you have to get them checked? I was wondering how often they need recertification to make sure they work.

You should visually check your system every 6 months to make sure there is no obvious physical damage to any of the air terminals (lightning rods) or any of the cables on the roof. You can easily do this by walking around your home and looking at the roof. Then every 3-5 years you can have your grounding rods checked electrically to make sure you still have good grounding meaning in a certain tolerance range and to make sure all your connections remain tight.

You can contact the installer to come and check your system or there is a service here in the Villages that can check your grounding system. If you are interested please PM me.

As far as roof replacement, when it needs to be done the LPS contractor will have to come and remove the system then re-install it when the new roof is installed. Some of the parts can be re-used so it may not be as expensive as when initially installed.

As far as getting a Lightning Protection System Installed you need to use a UL Certified installer to insure the system is installed correctly and will protect your home if it's ever hit by lightning. See the list below. Many times when a house is destroyed by lightning non-certified handymen tend to move into the area affected and try to get business. Some of these people don't have the knowledge to do the installation correctly. Never hire a contractor going door-to-door soliciting their services to install an LPS. Always ask for their UL certification.

Remember if your house takes a direct hit by lightning it usually enters the attic and will richocet like a bullet throughout your home looking for a path to ground and if you are in the way, you can be hit and killed in your own home. This is very rare but it can happen. Finally, although you have homeowners insurance to repair or rebuild your home if destroyed by lightning, it can take up to a year or more to get your home rebuilt these days. So, for a relatively small amount of money you can invest in a Lightning Protection System and have the piece of mind that you have increased your odds of no or little damage to your home and have protected your family if you ever are unfortunate enough to get hit by lightning. Especially since we live in one of the lightning capitals of the world here in Florida.

I'm a member of Len Hathaway's Lightning Study Group and will be speaking with Len and Frank at the presentation this Tuesday at 7PM at the Laurel Manor Rec Center. I highly recommend that you come just to better understand this whole situation.

Triangle Lightning Protection - (352) 483-7020
A1 Lightning Protection - (352) 465-0620

[TVTVTV]

Great info, jrref. If lightning rods are such a desirable and beneficial item, why are there only a few licensed companies around here? Are the two you noted really large companies?

[Altavia]

///...

[sowilts]

5775 Henry Loop Linden Isle

[kendi]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

In the 3+ yrs I’ve been here I’ve heard much more about lightening strikes in TV than up North. Most don’t make the news because the damage is not as extensive as the house on Linden Isle.

According to the weather man on channel 6 local news lightning rods do not help. He went into detail about their history and why they aren’t worth having. You can probably find his explanation on their website.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Seriously????

40 years ago on Long Island there were 2 guys going around offering to "recharge" your lightning rods for $100-----With inflation taken into account, I'd be glad to "recertify" lightning rods for let's say $400. Of course, the hard part is getting lightning to strike them so we know "they work".

Yes! i knew there would be a buzinezz opportunity in here somewhere!

All cash, under the table. . .

You in Stu?

[Jim 9922]

We have a lightning protection system and replace our roof a year ago. For a very reasonable price, A-1 removed the system a couple of days prior to the roof replacement, plugged all holes (in the roof and soffits) , stored our system (cables, rods, clips, attachment plates, etc.) at their facility and then returned a couple of days after the reroofing was complete and reinstalled the system, adding new cables where they deemed necessary, sealed the roof attachments and resealed all soffit holes, and tested all grounding rods.

The only potential problem I can see is who takes responsibility if a leak subsequently develops. I don't anticipate too much of a problem because we used 2 well established, experienced, professional companies.

The metal framing which was used to enclose our lanai is also grounded as part of the overall system.

As for the gas line in the attic: a separate grounding cable is attached at the manifold system and another ground is attached to the pipe where it enters the house.

[Kenswing]

As far as I know every building that The Villages owns has a lightning protection system on it. That there speaks volumes. The Developer doesn’t spend money where he doesn’t feel it’s a benefit. We’re still on the fence on whether to have one installed or not.

[mraines]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.
I live on a golf course and I am always amazed at the golfers who are still out there when it thunders and storms are in the area. Rule of thumb is "when thunder roars, go indoors."

[mrf0151]

Copper air-terminals are extreamly effective taking the energy to the ground. There is only one company in the central Florida area that really does it right. We had several companies come out and give us information and pricing. A-1 Lightning does it right and is the most competitive with pricing. Call Danny at 352-2665020. A small price for peace of mind.

[Escape Artist]

How many people have lightning rods on their houses? Ballpark, what did it cost? Do you think it was worth it? Do they work?

I would think you would get a discount on your insurance if you had them.

You didn’t answer any of the OP’s questions, and only asked more of your own! Unhelpful :sad:

[Karmanng]

This is the 21st home to be destroyed by lightning since 2004. None had a lightning protection system. There are many myths included in this thread.
There will be a free non-commercial educational lightning presentation at the POA meeting on Tuesday June 20th, 7 PM, at Laurel Manor. The subjects to be covered:
Personal lightning safety outdoors and indoors
Lightning induced surge to appliances and electronics
Lightning protection systems commonly called lightning rods
Debunking a bakers dozen common myths about lightning

too bad I cant attend wont be there till end of summer early fall

[Karmanng]

Since last year I find myself not liking lightning storms. Rain is fine. Funny I never worried as much about those back when I was renting. :shrug:

Florida is the #1 state in lightning density with 285 events every square mile. Though Texas is #1 with lightning strikes with over 18 million!

Thinking about getting a rod...

IM still in Arizona and we also get lightening tons of it and they show all the dots on the maps They always said we were the capital of the world I dont like lightening have had 3 experinces with it,,,,,, I guess I might put a rod on now after all Im in LINDEN just bought a year ago planning to move this is too close by by a few blocks......im in a villa........ugh.......

[Karmanng]

Any more news, we live at Linden and are currently at Maryland?
Im in LINDEN too taylor villas still in AZ

[dewilson58]

As far as I know every building that The Villages owns has a lightning protection system on it.

Yes & No,

I noticed Brownwood does not have protection.

On the drive back from BW, I noticed the following did NOT have protection:
Fire Station
Two Rec Centers
Guard Shacks
Two mail box stations

The hospital and hotel at BW did have protection.

[asianthree]

So on an up note, house gets hit with lightning, I can change the few things I did wrong on the new build :bigbow:

[Altavia]

Yes & No,

I noticed Brownwood does not have protection.

On the drive back from BW, I noticed the following did NOT have protection:
Fire Station
Two Rec Centers
Guard Shacks
Two mail box stations

The hospital and hotel at BW did have protection.

Interesting, also noticed them on the sales center at Brownwood and fire stations at Odel Circle and Sarasota.

Haven't notice them on fire stations with metal roofs (?)

See them on some pump stations.

Think it was a POA meeting where they said "critical" infrastructure was protected.

[jarodrig]

If your next door neighbor has lightning rods, you're in luck....

Why is that ?

Contrary to popular belief, lightning rods DO NOT attract lightning !

[dewilson58]

Interesting, also noticed them on the sales center at Brownwood and fire stations at Odel Circle and Sarasota.

Haven't notice them on fire stations with metal roofs (?)

See them on some pump stations.

Think it was a POA meeting where they said "critical" infrastructure was protected.

Oh, forgot to mention..............The condo's in Brownwood are NOT protected.

[zmarkp]

Would anyone consider videotaping this presentation and putting it online?

That would be of _great_ value to Villagers!

Thanks - Mark

[sounding]

I got a breaking news email from that “alternative” Villages new source, that said a home in the Village of Linden was struck by lightning and burned down in last night’s thunder/lightning activity. Since this my first summer living here, was curious how often this happens - Common, Not-So-Common, One-Off?

I feel so bad for the homeowners, luckily no one was home at the time of fire, as they were up North.

The first thing I did upon moving to The Villages was: 1. Install lightning rods. 2. Install a whole-house surge protector at the main circuit box. 3. Replace the flexible yellow gas lines in the attic with black iron pipe.

[Stu from NYC]

The first thing I did upon moving to The Villages was: 1. Install lightning rods. 2. Install a whole-house surge protector at the main circuit box. 3. Replace the flexible yellow gas lines in the attic with black iron pipe.

Why whole house surge protector at main circuit box?

We got one from Seco and they do it outside your house with the idea being stop surge before it gets inside.

[Just jimmy]

Last august our flag pole in front of the house was struck by lightning. It was burned. Blew all our pool equipment, landscape lights, clothes dryer, pool alarm, and a few gfi outlets. A few another things. We were very lucky. We had pavers around the base of the flag pole and some of them landed on neighbors roof. We were happy to have it hit the pole instead of the house. Pole is very close to front bedroom.

[Stu from NYC]

Last august our flag pole in front of the house was struck by lightning. It was burned. Blew all our pool equipment, landscape lights, clothes dryer, pool alarm, and a few gfi outlets. A few another things. We were very lucky. We had pavers around the base of the flag pole and some of them landed on neighbors roof. We were happy to have it hit the pole instead of the house. Pole is very close to front bedroom.

Wow lucky nobody got hurt.

[mntlblok]

Of no real value for lightning rod decisions, but if you haven't read Mark Twain's short story on the subject, you might enjoy it. :-) Read Political Economy by Mark Twain | 25,629 Free Classic Stories and Poems | FullReads (http://fullreads.com/literature/political-economy/)

And, I found it meshed nicely with his description of learning to ride a "bike", another recent subject area here on TOTV. Taming the Bicycle (https://americanliterature.com/author/mark-twain/essay/taming-the-bicycle)

[bluecenturian]

One of the first things we got on our house. Cost varies based on the roof shape/peeks. Have a woodside and paid $1800 in 2019.

I believe they work, it does not attract lightening to your house, if it is within 15 feet it will attract it to the rod and give it a safe passage to the ground.

Look and see how many houses with rods caught fire vs how many without.

[bluecenturian]

Wrong

[MidWestIA]

My friend had lightning rods got hit anyway small fire in attic

[jrref]

Great info, jrref. If lightning rods are such a desirable and beneficial item, why are there only a few licensed companies around here? Are the two you noted really large companies?

I'm not sure why there are not more licensed and certified companies installing LPS systems here in the Villages but I do know many people either are not aware of the risk or choose to ignore it saying it won't happen to them.

I had a friend who wouldn't install a system until the house across the street got hit.

Lightning Protection Systems installed correctly do work.

Look at this report https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/2227212-post37.html

The two companies I mentioned are very busy and expect a lead time to get installed.

[jrref]

Yes & No,

I noticed Brownwood does not have protection.

On the drive back from BW, I noticed the following did NOT have protection:
Fire Station
Two Rec Centers
Guard Shacks
Two mail box stations

The hospital and hotel at BW did have protection.
Look closer, most commercial buildings including Villages buildings have LPS systems.

[jrref]

Why whole house surge protector at main circuit box?

We got one from Seco and they do it outside your house with the idea being stop surge before it gets inside.
Stu, good question. The Seco surge protector will protect your home from any voltage spikes coming from the Utility Power Line. It will also clamp voltage spikes on your panel from any of the branch circuits to some extent. The problem is say for example there is a lightning strike near by and a large voltage spike is induced on to one of your branch circuits like in the garage with is common, if the voltage spike is fast, which most are, the Surge Protector installed in the circuit breaker panel which is usually rated similar to the Seco protector, will catch the spike and clamp it before it goes to the rest of the branch circuits in the rest of the panel. The Seco surge protector is farther away from the event so depending on how fast the spike is will determine if the Seco protector will see it and clamp it quick enough to prevent the spike from traveling to the other branch circuits in your home. Most voltage spikes are quick enough that the length of wire beteen the surge protector and the source of the voltage spike becomes significant.

I can tell you there is a lot of discussion on this very topic meaning do I need only the Seco or the panel protector or both. My personal suggestion is to get both becasue it's a known fact that the more layers of surge protection you have the better. Remember the Seco OR the protector installed in the panel is the first line of defense and will reduce the voltage spike down to a level were your level-3 (point-of-use) protectors can manage what remains.

Also remember, what I'm saying applies most of the time meaning if the spike is large enough, it probably will overwhelm whatever surge protection you have installed but fortunately this is not common. An example is if your home took a direct hit by lightning, no surge protection system will be able to block or shunt that amount of energy. You would need a Lightning Protection Syetem to deal with that event.

I'll be talking about surge protection at the POA meeting Tuesday night, 7PM at Laurel Manor. Come by and we can talk more.

[Nana2Teddy]

There is a house on the left side of #5 on the Amelia 9 at Mallory that had severe damage from lightning maybe 6-9 months ago---it is still under reconstruction, but getting there.
Yes, that happened right before our lifestyle visit last summer in June. It’s my cousin’s village so we saw the house while we were here. That village is hilly and the home that was struck was up on the higher end of the village. I heard the couple moved up north to be with family so the home will be sold once completed (or maybe already sold?).

[Nana2Teddy]

I have driven by three houses in this area that were struck by lightning. Or, at least, burned down. I would have to research the reasons but there were stories about them in The Villages Daily Sun.
One home recently suffered major fire damage down here below 44 because of a spark from a worker setting their roof on fire while having a room addition constructed.

[Nana2Teddy]

You/we live in the lightening capital of the US. Twenty years ago when they ran gas line into the attics and lightening hit a house, it would burn the entire structure if wood framed and entire roof if it was block and stucco. Then they went to all electric. So, if you have plastic gas lines in your attic, you will be susceptible to serious damage if hit by lightening.
All of the new builds down south of 44 have gas lines in the attic. I love gas stoves, but wish the gas line wasn’t in our attic.

[Nana2Teddy]

One of the first things we got on our house. Cost varies based on the roof shape/peeks. Have a woodside and paid $1800 in 2019.

I believe they work, it does not attract lightening to your house, if it is within 15 feet it will attract it to the rod and give it a safe passage to the ground.

Look and see how many houses with rods caught fire vs how many without.
Thank you for this helpful info. We have a new Veranda Mason, which is the same floorplan as the Woodside. We’d likely be looking at about $2500 now.

[Nana2Teddy]

The first thing I did upon moving to The Villages was: 1. Install lightning rods. 2. Install a whole-house surge protector at the main circuit box. 3. Replace the flexible yellow gas lines in the attic with black iron pipe.
Who changed your gas lines to iron pipe please?

[Bogie Shooter]

Wrong

How is one to know what you are talking about?

[Altavia]

Who changed your gas lines to iron pipe please?

Previous thread on gas lines in the attic.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/contractors-services-91/galvanized-gas-pipes-attic-24497/

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/gas-lines-attic-lightning-prone-areas-15552/

[pikeselectric]

Hello to all from your local, trusted electrical company, Pike's Electric! Central Florida is known as a highly active area in the U.S. for lightning strikes. Did you know the average lightning strike can carry up to 300 million volts/30,000 amps? Consider this: The average circuit current in a residential home is 120 volts and 15 amps! This is just one of the many reasons to consider Whole Home Surge Protection to protect your home's major appliances and sensitive electronics. We offer the Eaton Ultra Whole Home Surge Protector and so many Villages Residents/Customers of ours have invested in this protection for over 10 years. We highly recommend it, and right now, we are running 10% OFF our already lowest pricing in the area. Give us a call if this is of interest to you and mention this post! Do not wait until it's too late.
(352) 748-6251
- Casandra with Pike's Electric :wave:

[pikeselectric]

I know of one home that was struck by lightning, on their moving day. All classic cars in the 4 car garage, furniture in place, boxes not yet unpacked. Tired, they went to grab something to eat, storm came in while they were out. Lighting struck, home, classic cars, total loss, along with losing their pet. Since 07 it is the only home I knew of personally, that lightning destroyed a home. I am sure there have been others, but this home in our circle of people.

So yes it does happen, but with the thousands of home in such a large area, it’s just bad luck. Nope we don’t have lighting rods

Asianthree, WOW what a story :sigh: We have seen and heard of a lot of nearby and direct lightning strikes in the area and responded to damage caused by these instances, even within the year or so. We do not provide or recommend lightning rods. Instead we feel whole home surge protection is the best plan of action, in case of a nearby strike or surges into the home in case of such issues. What some homeowners do not realize is such occurance can cause serious damage if you are next door or even in the same Village. - Casandra from Pike's Electric 352-748-6251

[Altavia]

Asianthree, WOW what a story :sigh: We have seen and heard of a lot of nearby and direct lightning strikes in the area and responded to damage caused by these instances, even within the year or so. We do not provide or recommend lightning rods. Instead we feel whole home surge protection is the best plan of action, in case of a nearby strike or surges into the home in case of such issues. What some homeowners do not realize is such occurance can cause serious damage if you are next door or even in the same Village. - Casandra from Pike's Electric 352-748-6251

Very poor advise, surge protection will not protect a direct strike to a gas line.

[Dotneko]

Some of you are making my eyes bleed.
You may lighten a load, lighten your hair color. You get struck by lightning. No E.

[Lightning]

My friend had lightning rods got hit anyway small fire in attic

This appears to be an outlier and further information would be useful because we have not seen this series of circumstances and it raises a number of questions.


Did this happen in The Villages? Where and when did it occur? Did the lightning protection system (LPS) firm have installers that were "Master Installer" by exam by the Lightning Protection Institute and was the firm listed by UL? In the aftermath of the event was the LPS firm called in to inspect the system.


How was the fire extinguished - by the fire department or by the homeowner shutting off the gas? What was the nature of the gas line failure and how was it repaired? Who was the manufacturer of the gas pipe? Was the gas manifold in attic grounded to the electric panel with a no. 6 ground wire? Was the manifold grounded to the LPS?

[Altavia]

.


What was the nature of the gas line failure and how was it repaired? Who was the manufacturer of the gas pipe? Was the gas manifold in attic grounded to the electric panel with a no. 6 ground wire? Was the manifold grounded to the LPS?

Grounding the gas meter and manifold has been electrical code requirement for years as it is for other metallic components/structures.

But I'm curious how a 6 ga solid wire could help mitigate a 30,000 amp. transient lightening strike? There are reasons multi-stand braided cable is used for the LPS.

[Lightning]

Grounding the gas meter and manifold has been electrical code requirement for years as it is for other metallic components/structures.

But I'm curious how a 6 ga solid wire could help mitigate a 30,000 amp. transient lightening strike? There are reasons multi-stand braided cable is used for the LPS.

Grounding on the customer side of the gas meter is being done on homes built south of SR44. Between 466A and 42 homes with gas were supposed to have the No. 6 ground wire from the gas manifold in the attic to the electric panel ground. Absolutely agree it is of little value in a lightning strike but that is the way it was being installed in the past. If you have a lightning protection system it will be grounded at the manifold and the meter.

[Altavia]

Grounding on the customer side of the gas meter is being done on homes built south of SR44.

Between 466A and 42 homes with gas were supposed to have the No. 6 ground wire from the gas manifold in the attic to the electric panel ground.

Absolutely agree it is of little value in a lightning strike but that is the way it was being installed in the past.

If you have a lightning protection system it will be grounded at the manifold and the meter.

Thanks for the explanation.

[Nucky]

Seriously????

40 years ago on Long Island there were 2 guys going around offering to "recharge" your lightning rods for $100-----With inflation taken into account, I'd be glad to "recertify" lightning rods for let's say $400. Of course, the hard part is getting lightning to strike them so we know "they work".

Ah Ha, how many years did Vito and Rocco get for that scam?? Genius! Imagine if they put all that energy into good things instead! Might as well live a thrilling life cause you could be boring and still a Genius and get run over by a Bull in the middle of a field say maybe in Spain. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I'm calling up North tomorrow and getting in on the ground floor of this enterprise you turned me onto. I've been bored with all this heat. Need a money-making diversion. :boom:

[Altavia]

Grounding on the customer side of the gas meter is being done on homes built south of SR44. Between 466A and 42 homes with gas were supposed to have the No. 6 ground wire from the gas manifold in the attic to the electric panel ground. Absolutely agree it is of little value in a lightning strike but that is the way it was being installed in the past. If you have a lightning protection system it will be grounded at the manifold and the meter.

FYI/If I understand correctly, the manufacturer of CCST is recommending consideration LPS in lightening prone areas?

Depending upon conditions specific to the location of the structure in which the Gastite system is being installed, including but not limited to whether the area is prone to lightning, the owner of the structure should consider whether a lightning protection system is necessary or appropriate.


It also appears the Arc-resistant CSST used South of 44 with a black outer “arc-resistant” jacket probably don’t need any special bonding.

Bonding CSST - Structure Tech Home Inspections (https://structuretech.com/bonding-csst-2/)

310.3 Arc-resistant CSST.
This section applies to corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) that is listed with an arcresistant jacket or coating system in accordance with ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26. The CSST shall be electrically continuous and bonded to an effective ground fault current path.

Where any CSST component of a piping system does not have an arc-resistant jacket or coating system, the bonding requirements of Section 310.2 shall apply.

Arc-resistant-jacketed CSST shall be considered to be bonded where it is connected to an appliance that is connected to the appliance grounding conductor of the circuit that supplies that appliance.

[dewilson58]

I have been coming to the villages since 1999. .

Been coming since '99, jus joined ToTV a couple months ago...............did you have a different sign-on name??

:posting: