Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and other houses of worship spend millions of dollars each year on property damage caused by lightning fires. Lightning can cause considerable damage to a church building. In addition to the lightning risk typical of all structures, houses of worship are especially vulnerable to lightning damage due to:
- Height: Steeples, crosses, minarets, and other symbols of faith are typically the tallest structures in a neighborhood. Their height increases the likelihood of being struck by lightning.
- Occupancy: Church buildings and community halls are places of assembly that require additional protection against lightning. The daycares, schools, and shelters found in many religious facilities also warrant extra protection.
- Electronics: Computers, sound systems, alarm systems and other electronics many congregations use in worship can be damaged by power surges caused by lightning.
- Resilience: Religious buildings play an important role in their communities. Many are landmarks or historic buildings that anchor neighborhoods. Others are places of refuge that must remain open in times of crises.
A professionally installed lightning protection system protects the structure and equipment by providing a safe path to the ground for lightning’s harmful electricity. Because of a church’s height, unique roof style and construction, a specific and custom protection system is required for each structure.
Lightning protection on the steeple only or a partial lightning protection installation to ground a steeple is not adequate protection. A full system consisting of strike termination devices, conductor bonds, grounding and surge protection are essential for a complete and effective system.
The system should comply with nationally-recognized standards, including LPI 175, NFPA 780, and UL 96, and should be inspected regularly. 4LP is an LPI certified professional and ensures a safe and effective system that won’t compromise aesthetics. Contact us today for a complete protection plan.
We recently installed a certified lightning protection system on the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, a 108-year-old historical site. The church was safe throughout the 2020 hurricane season, including Hurricane Laura last August.
