A beginners guide to home lightning protection systems

by Ann Hayward 02/26/2024

Lightning

When a lightning bolt hits a property, it can do an unbelievable amount of damage. Lightning protection systems are a great investment and can save your household from damage and expensive repairs. Knowing the basics of surge protection and lightning rods will help you choose the best option for your home.


Home surge protection

Surge protectors act as guards for your home's electrical system. If there’s an electrical surge, a surge protector will stop the flow from wreaking havoc on your home's appliances and wiring. 

A surge protector will also redirect the extra electricity during a lightning strike, which can help in preventing a house fire. 


Lightning rods

Lighting rods have been used for hundreds of years to protect buildings from lightning strikes. They work by sending electric currents through a grounding system. The surge is redirected into the ground, preventing damage to the structure the rod is attached to. 

Modern lightning rods are even more effective than their original iterations. You can even install them yourself using a kit from a hardware store.


Home lightning protection system costs

Full lightning protection systems cost around $400 to $2,500. The price may seem hefty, however, the cost to repair damage from a lightning strike can cost even more. Surge protection can safeguard your space to ensure damages from lightning surges are stopped in their tracks. 

Even though lightning strikes can be alarming, you can prevent damages before they have the chance to occur. Consider speaking with a local specialist to learn more about the devices your home may need to avoid electrical surges. 

About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]