What Happens If Lightning Strikes Your Roof?

Thunderstorms are all part and parcel of the weather in the summer months and although not pleasant, they are rarely something that causes a lot of damage. Despite this, if lightning does hit the roof of your home, it has the potential to cause significant damage. With temperatures that exceed the surface temperature of the sun and a strong electrical charge, it is important to know what the risks are of lightning.

The main danger to your roof if it should be struck by lightning is fire. Because of the extreme heat, materials on the roof can ignite instantly, especially if it has been very dry and warm in the run up to the storm, which can often be the case in the summer months.

The sheer force of a lightning strike to the roof also has the potential to damage the roofs’ structure. Roof tiles can be cracked or come off the roof completely, the flashing could be damaged and the other parts of the roof, such as the chimney and the gutters could also suffer damage from the force of the strike.

Electrical surges are another issue that can be caused by lightning striking your roof. Lightning can enter the wiring of your home through the roof, which can damage appliances and also put your home at risk of an electrical fire due to the intensity of such a high voltage surge going through the wiring.

If your home has been struck by lightning, it is a good idea to get a professional roofer like this roofers Fareham based company https://www.randsroofing.co.uk/roofing-services/roofers-fareham/ as well as an electrician to check your property for signs of damage. Installing a lightning rod can help to protect your home and make sure that the risk is reduced.