Replacement Strings

Where Can I Find Replacement String on Your Site?
One of the most common questions that we receive here at WindChime.com regards replacement string for wind chimes. For several reasons, we do not offer replacement string at this time. First and foremost, wind chime manufacturers by and large do not provide a way to make string available to consumers on the marketplace. Second, while bamboo wind chimes might seem to be simple at first sight, there are many complex calculations that go into the construction of a chime, including the point at which the striker comes into contact with the tube. Varying the length of string may cause distortions in the tone and quality of sound that your chime produces. Because of the large number of chimes that we carry, it would be unfair to our customers to offer generic replacement string that would leave them with less than adequate sound.

Where Can I Find String in My Area?
We will not leave you "hanging," though. Polyester fiber is commonly suggested as a suitable replacement for glass wind chimes. This is because synthetic string is less likely to fray from the weight and wear of the tubes and will not rot or become weakened by exposure to the elements. Archery supply stores carry string that is rated for greater than 100 lbs. of force, more than enough to handle the weight of even our heaviest chimes. Fishing line is a cheaper, more easily accessible alternative, and you should choose a string rated for a higher load.

How Can I Repair My Chime?
Once you have chosen the proper string given the specific application, the difficult task of getting it tied at the right length in a secure fashion begins. The majority of our chimes are hung in a balanced formation, where the top of the tubes are at an equal height. A large portion of this exercise will be common sense mixed with guess and check. You should get the string tied with a temporary knot that can be easily removed in case it happens to be fastened at the wrong length. Once you are comfortable with the sound after your repair, simply secure the knot so that it will not slip.

How Can I Keep My Chime from Becoming Damaged? Prevention is the best answer to some problems, and the high occurrence of string-related questions leads us to believe that a few precautions are in order. Although many of our chimes have been tested thoroughly in high winds, it is always best to protect them from damaging winds and severe weather. For instance, if you hear that there is a high likelihood for severe weather in your area, be cautious and place your chime indoors away from harm. Hanging is another area where common sense can save you time and money. Do not hang your chime in an area where it will be hit by doors or come into contact with other hard surfaces on extreme or erratic swings. Wind chime hooks help give the chime extra clearance and thus increase the likelihood that it will avoid damage. Can I Safely Hang My Chime from a Tree? Hanging wind chimes from a tree branch is a great way to increase the natural appeal of your favorite outdoor area, but there are some extra precautions in order to protect both your chime and tree. Select a branch that will not move too far in any direction when the wind blows at higher speeds. Also, make sure that the chime is not concealed in any leaves or smaller branches. Ducking under a low-hanging branch only to run into a metal chime is no fun.