John Grabowski wrote:

Diligent bonding and connections to water pipes is good, but it's
not a substitute for a proper ground, e.g., one or more copper rods
driven six feet or more into the earth. A water-pipe bond is just to
prevent the piping systems in the house from remaining live with
voltage if they come in contact with a live wire.


*I took for granted that the OP had a copper pipe water service from
the street. You are correct that if he didn't, two eight foot ground
rods would provide the necessary lightning protection.


I suggest that no amount of copper pipe is a proper substitute for ground
rods.

What's the reference to lightening protection about?