Can metal siding and roofing be used in place of a main conductor?

Using metal siding and roofing as a main conductor in a lightning protection system is not permissible because they do not meet the specific requirements for a main conductor. Main conductors must have the proper electrical and structural characteristics to effectively lead lightning strikes safely to the ground.

While metal sidings and roofing can provide some level of conductivity and may contribute to a building's overall lightning protection strategy, they cannot replace the designated conductors that are specifically designed for this purpose. Main conductors need to be continuous, low-resistance paths that are tested to handle the high currents associated with lightning.

In addition, the structure itself may be at risk if non-standard materials are used as conductors, potentially leading to failure during a lightning event. Adhering strictly to the standards outlined by lightning protection guidelines is crucial to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the system. Thus, the answer indicating that metal siding and roofing cannot substitute for a main conductor reflects the necessity of following established lightning protection protocols.