Lightning protection
 

Based on the article below I think it behooves us all to look into lightning protection for one of our most valuable assets. I realize the number of lighting strikes is small I would certainly sleep better at night knowing I did everything I could to protect my home and all the toys inside it. Can anyone share their story on contractors and systems.
Thanks Skip

http://www.oldhousejournal.com/how-t.../magazine/1685

We used A-1 Lightning Protection 1-866-465-0620. Jeff the owner gave a 1 hour demonstration of everything he was going to do and why it had to be done that way. He pays great attention to details. His installation crew was courteous and did an awesome job.

A-1
 

We had 3 bids and took the highest, A-1. The other two firms were unable to answer the simplest questions, or gave illogical answers.

A-1 has all the certifications and they know what they are doing. The copper cables are nicely concealed around the house and we could not be happier with the installation, which was about a year ago, just after the house fire across from Lopez CC.

PM me and i'll be glad to show you their work. I'm in the Village of Bonnybrook.

Yet another satisfied customer who used A-1. Very professional, and explained everything they did, and why. You can pay less, but I would still go with A-1 again...

What a great thing it would be if either the POA or the VHA would negotiate a volume based price reduction from some reputable company for the installation of lightning rods on homes!:BigApplause:

POA ad on page 19 lists, Triangle Lightning, 483-7020.

Went to the meeting on Tuesday, 6/17/14, at Laurel Manor and listening to a presentation.

1. Lightning is unpredictable.
2. When you hear the thunder roar, go indoors.

There are two kind of hits:
1. A direct hit that will start a fire. Especially those who have gas lines, in their attics.
2. An indirect hit that will possibly, blow out appliances. They suggested having your appliances plugged into a surge protector.

Chances on a direct hit is 1 out of 775,000. Indirect hits are more likely. I know I would sleep better at night, feeling protected, for whatever, the cost maybe.

It seems the greatest threat is from indirect hits, and surge protectors are no guarantee of safety for equipment. It seems that unplugging everything is the only way to be sure, but given the frequency of storms at this time of year in TV, that seems pretty cumbersome.

True. It's true indirect hits will occur may more times than a direct hit!!!

You can always provide another layer of protection with a power strip, (surge protector), especially the fridge.

I would feel safer knowing I did all I could, not to get zapped!!

Just sayin........

Also check with SECO or power company to get a PRIMARY surge protector that goes between your meter and breaker box - you can buy them for around $350 or rent them for $5.95 a month. - also I just installed whole house lightning protection from Triangle Lightning Protection, Inc. - great price and very knowledgeable folks. takes about 3 to 4 hrs to install on a designer home. - there website is Triangle Lightning Protection - Contact Us

What is the ballpark cost of one of these systems ?

Before you invest in lightening protection I suggest you stop by at one of the fire stations and speak to one of the firefighters.

Enlighten us, why?