Lightning Protection

Lightning protection and surge protection are often used interchangeably, but they are completely different systems.

Lightning protection is specifically designed to protect the structure itself from a direct lightning strike.

The lightning protection system we install is known as the Early Streamer Emission (ESE) system. This system consists of:

• A long metal rod that penetrates through the roof
• The rod extending approximately 15–20 feet into the air
• A “flying saucer” style structure at the top of the rod
• A heavy metal cable connected from the rod down into the ground

This system helps intercept lightning that is above the structure and redirect it safely into the ground, where the energy is dispersed. The goal is to prevent lightning from striking vulnerable areas of the structure directly.