About Us
Baker Lightning Rod Company is a small, family-owned business. The original owner, Clarence Baker, was a salesman for ABC/Rhea Lightning Rod Company (founded 1938). When Mr. Rhea retired in the 1970s, Mr. Baker founded Baker Lightning Rod Company. Upon his own retirement, Mr. Baker sold the company to Phillip McCaffrey in 1986. Then, in 2005, Mr. McCaffrey retired and passed on the company to Francis Goger, who has worked as an installer for the company since 1983.
Francis Goger
The current owner, is a certified Underwriters Laboratories lightning rod installer. Over the years, he has gained a tremendous amount of knowledge and expertise in lightning protection systems. In addition, he brings a wide range of related skills to the company, including general construction and business ownership experience.
Baker Lightning Rod Company
Is a member of the National Federation of Independent Businesses, an advocacy group for small businesses.
Baker Lightning Rod Company is based in Asbury, NJ in Central-West New Jersey. Therefore, we have access to a wide area, including:
- All of New Jersey
- The New York City Metro Area
- Eastern Pennsylvania
About Lightning Rods
Lightning can strike unexpectedly at any time, resulting in fire, damage, injury, or even death. Lightning is a bolt of energy, created by friction in the sky, and it aims to reach the ground as fast as possible. Structures or people in the way are inconsequential. If a house or other structure, such as yours, is in the way, the house could either burn or explode. There is no way to stop lightning, but fortunately, we can redirect it safely to the ground.
Lightning rods are a simple concept, but they require a skilled technician to install. Basically, they sit on the roof of a building and are attached to highly conductive cables of either copper or aluminum alloy. The cables follow a direct path to the ground. When lightning strikes, the energy moves through the rods and cables without creating the friction that can lead to fires and destruction. Once in the ground, the energy disperses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if your structure is struck by lightning, lightning rods will keep the energy from reaching the circuitry of the building and will not fry your appliances or equipment. However, your appliances are still at risk of being damaged if lightning strikes an off-site power grid that supplies your building. For this reason, we can also install surge protection for your electrical service equipment.
These days, lightning rods and cables can be installed as a concealed system so they are hidden and do not interfere with the aesthetics or architecture. Alternatively, decorative lighting rods are available if you prefer to show off your lightning rod system.