Ask the Question

cleverdick · Joined: 09 Mar 2006 Posts: 43

I have recently visited Central Europe (Croatia and Slovenia), where it struck me (no pun intended) that most houses, even those that are not particularly elevated, have a lightning bar running the length of the roofline. Some even have a spike, too. Now, I've never seen anything like this in the UK. I'm intrigued to know whether these systems are mandatory there and how effective they are, particularly in preventing a strike in the first place. A quick Google reveals a few companies here who appear to specialise in commercial buildings (and tall ones at that), but nothing domestic. I'm slightly concerned, because I do live fairly high up with open fields across the road, although I've never heard of a lightning strike in my neighbourhood. But there's always a first time, and I do have a fairly hefty antenna on the chimney.... Shocked

thescruff · Moderator Joined: 03 May 2003 Posts: 4632 Location: Bath

They don't prevent a strike but they do protect the building.

Any of the commercial guys should be able to price it up for you.

I have all my computer stuff protected, bar the laptop, which is on my list of thing to do next time I go to town.

Belkin gold is the best.