5 Best Pipes for Wind Chimes

Wind chimes can make magical noises. Wind chimes are therefore an excellent addition to every garden or house. The consistency of a wind chime’s pipe or tube determines the sound it makes. 

Until getting into the details of each pipe set, there are a few things to keep in mind while shopping for a wind chime pipe. 

Features to consider when choosing pipes for wind chimes: 

• Weatherproof factor if you have plans to hang your chime outside;
• The durable materials of pipes;
• The overall length;
• Sounds produced by the pipes;

Make sure to read the following buying guide, comparison table and product reviews of top 5 best pipes for wind chimes. It will be easier to choose the ideal pipes for DIY projects and crafts. 

National Artcraft Set of 5 Wind Chime Tubes – the best for small chimes!

You can create your metal chimes with this package of tubes. These pipes may also be used for DIY crafts. The tubes from National Artcraft come in a series of five strong aluminum tubes that have been pre-drilled for installation. Three sets are included in this package.

Check Price

They create a fun clunking sound when correctly strung and caught in the wind. Each tube in the package is of various length with a soft silver color that is pleasing to the eye.

Pros

Pros

• Easy to install and hang;
• Pre-drilled;
• Great quantity;
• Designed for small chimes;
• Solid not hollow;
• Nice tinkling sounds;

Cons

Cons

• Good only for small projects;
• Some users disliked their diameter;

They create a nice jangling sound when correctly strung. The tubes vary in length from 3 to 5 inches and have a 14-inch circumference. They’re sturdy metal tubes with two ends that open.

YEJI Large Hollow Wind Chime Tubes – the best for the soothing sound!

These YEJI chime pipes may be used as a remembrance as well as for decorating the lawn, patio, or house. They clatter and make a fun sound as the wind blows. Such chimes hanging from the ceiling would add wellness and pleasure to the household.

Check Price

All YEJI tubes are constructed of durable aluminum alloy that has been polished. YEJI tubes are blue. This pack offers 6 pieces with the length ranging from 7.1 to 11 inches. The diameter of each tube is 0.63 inches.

Pros

Pros

• Produce soothing sounds;
• Nice blue color;
• Durable aluminum alloy;
• Different length options;
• Weatherproof;

Cons

Cons

• A bit smaller than claimed;
• Hanger holes are drilled at the same level;
• Quite thin;

These pipes produce a lovely sound. They dangle beautifully and can survive heavy rain and strong wind.

National Artcraft Attractive Windchime Tubes – the best for easy hanging!

This National Artcraft chime tube collection is a dream of any DIYer. Every package contains four empty, graduated gold aluminum tubes with pre-drilled hanging holes.

Check Price

They create a nice tinkling sound when properly strung. The tubes are 3/8 inch in diameter and vary in length from 4-1/2 to 6 inches.

This small tube set can be used for easy hanging in tight places.

Pros

Pros

• Aluminum hollow tubes;
• Pre-drilled;
• Easy to install;
• Lightweight and portable;
• Great price point;

Cons

Cons

• Only 4 tubes;
• Not suitable for heavy rain or strong wind;
• Small in diameter;

You can make a nice wind chime with these pre-drilled pipes. Feel free to add metal charms for light and soothing sound.

Cosmos Pack of Wind Chime Tubes – the best for the quantity!

Are you looking for the most affordable set of sturdy wind chime tubes? Then do not skip this Cosmos pack of 30 silver tubes that are hollow inside. Available in 5 lengths (6 pieces for each size) from 2.75 to 4.55 inches they are already pre-drilled for quick and simple hanging.

Check Price

You can easily create an awesome DIY wind chime with this budget-friendly set.

They create a gentle sound that is suitable for those that are sensitive to loud noises while still being a lovely sound as the wind triggers them on the patio.

Pros

Pros

• Great quantity;
• Budget-friendly;
• Durable;
• A versatile sound range;
• 5 lengths;
• Pre-drilled;

Cons

Cons

• Too thin;
• The tips can be bent;
• Not fully weatherproof;

This tubing package of thin (0.25” in diameter) but durable metal tubes can be bought to decorate your office/home/class and some narrow spaces as well. These pipes may even be used to hang the chime on the balcony or in the garden.

Chris. W Pack of Wind Chime Tubes – the best for portability!

This Chris. W Pack of 30 chime pipes offers 5 different lengths (6 tubes per size). These are silver-colored empty pipes of 2.75, 3.25, 3.55, 4 and 4.55 inches. The diameter of every aluminum tube is about 0.25 inches.

Check Price

The pre-drilled pipes can be conveniently hung in the workplace, at home, or outdoors. They can even be used to create your wind chimes as a DIY project.

This collection of empty tubes may be used to adorn tiny spaces in your home or workplace.

This package has an outstanding beauty aspect, as the aluminum tube set contrasts beautifully with the chime’s wooden spotlight.

Pros

Pros

• Lightweight;
• 5 lengths for different wind chimes;
• Thin and hollow;
• Durable;
• Pre-drilled;
• Easy to install;
• Good for small crafts and portable chimes;

Cons

Cons

• Too small for large chimes;
• Too thin for winter seasons;

These are pretty tubes, but they’re a little on the small side. These pipes, for example, are the optimal size for wine/beer bottle chimes that create different soothing sounds.

The Buyer’s Guide

Tubes, pipes or rods?

What is the distinction between a pipe, a rod and a tube in terms of measurement and application? Pipes are used to create passageways, while tubes are used to create structural elements such as handrails, motorcycles, and lawn chairs. The outside diameter, internal diameter, and metal form are the most significant parameters.  A rod, on the other side, is a solid cylinder (made of metal) that can make a significantly different sound than a tube. 

There are even DIY calculators that estimate a tube’s or circular rod’s resonant frequency and hang point position. 

One significant distinction to remember when determining whether to use a tube or a rod as the chime factor is the musical note’s sustain duration. In certain cases, a rod may have a significantly longer maintenance period, which could be desirable in certain situations but irritating in others.

The length of tubes and rods for a specified note is another distinctive factor. To hit the same note with the same metal, a rod is shorter than a tube. For example, a 1-inch steel rod for middle C (C4) is 26 1/4 inches long, whereas a 1-inch steel EMT tube is 32 7/8 inches long. Try using steel tubes along with the polished surface metal rods, and the vibration can be incredible. Because of their toughness, rods have a long retain period, which helps in the preservation of overtones. 

The weight and volume variations are two other things to remember. Rods usually have a small diameter, resulting in a narrower radiating surface and a louder chime, but the longer sustain duration will often compensate for the decreased loudness and sound completely appropriate.

Material

There are key materials of wind chime pipes available on the market:

• Metal – aluminum, copper and steel;
• Wood – bamboo;
• Glass;

Metal chimes have 2 major benefits over wind chimes constructed of other materials. The first benefit is that, with all the components used, metal pipes are the most robust and weatherproof. As a consequence, when left indoors, they can live the longest. Metal wind chimes, on the other side, may be tuned to a particular scale or tone sequence. Metal chimes have a rich tonal variation.

When people purchase a wooden wind chime, they like the shot hollow sound it creates, as well as the clattering of the wood.

The most popular explanation for buying glass wind chimes is for their decorative art design. There are frequently vividly colored as well. They generate high-pitched sounds.

Weatherproof factor

A high-quality chime can last for several years. Steel is the safest material for a chime since it does not rust when exposed to the elements.

When it comes to other kinds of material, check to see whether it has been treated with a waterproof coating, which can keep it sturdier when left outdoors all year.

Number of pipes

The amount of tubes or pipes in a wind chime is often a crucial factor in how it sounds. The amount of tubes is a very specific choice that you can make based on your preferences.

A rule of thumb: A wind chime with more tubes can create a more intricate or complex mix of notes than a chime with fewer tubes. However, you can choose which sound pattern you like based on your personal preferences.

Length

The thickness of a pipe influences the pitch and it causes the sound longer to enter your ears as the pipe is longer. A high pitch is produced because of this. For example, a 20-inch tube has a frequency of 663 hertz.

The term “pitch” refers to how strong (high) or quiet (low) a sound is. When you strike a large drum, it produces a lower pitch than if you hit a smaller drum. When you strike a drum, you add weight to it. Drums with bigger heads (drum surfaces) wobble back and forth more slowly, resulting in slower movements and a lower sound.

The duration of a chime’s pipe has a major influence on the chime’s melody. Consequently, the duration of the pipes or tubes has a major effect on the sound a chime creates.

Follow the rule of thumb: 

• Long tubes produce deep and loud tones;
• Short tubes are good for producing high-pitched sounds;

Video Tutorial: Stringing wind chime pipes

Comparison of Numerical Indicators for Pipes Used in Wind Chimes

Wind chimes are popular decorative items that produce a pleasant sound when struck by the wind. Pipes are one of the common materials used to create wind chimes. This table compares various numerical indicators for pipes used in wind chimes.

The table shows a comparison of five different pipe materials commonly used in wind chimes – aluminum, bamboo, brass, copper, and steel. The numerical indicators compared are diameter, length, wall thickness, weight, and price. The values in the table are sample values and are not representative of all pipes made from the respective materials. However, the table can provide a rough idea of the variations in numerical indicators across different materials used in wind chimes.

FAQ

What kind of pipe do you use for wind chimes?

There are a number of pipes that you can use for wind chimes. PVC pipe is a popular option because it is colorful, inexpensive and easy to work with. Metal tubing or rods can also be used, and these tend to produce a clearer tone than PVC. Brass, copper, or aluminum tubing are all good choices for metal pipes. The best option however would be stainless steel as it is a durable metal that will produce a pleasant sound. [1]

Does copper tubing make good wind chimes?

Yes, copper is a popular choice for wind chimes because it’s sturdy and produces a pleasant ringing sound and adds a rustic look to our house. However, copper is also a soft metal and can be damaged easily, so it’s important to choose a location for your wind chimes that won’t be exposed to harsh weather conditions.

If you’re looking for an affordable option, copper tubing is a good choice. You can find copper tubing at most hardware stores or online. [1], [2], [3]

How can I make my wind chimes sound better?

The sound of your wind chime is determined by the type, length and thickness of the tubing used, as well as elasticity and density of the chosen material. Thicker walls and larger diameter pipes produce the greatest sound.

But there are also a few more things you can do to make your wind chimes sound better. One is to use tubes with different sizes. This will create different tones when the wind blows through them. You can also try hanging your chimes in different locations to find the spot where the sounds are the most pleasing to you. Experiment with different materials for the chimes, too, all metals give a different sound. [4]

How do you make a metal pipe wind chime?

Making a metal pipe wind chime is a simple process. All you need is a metal pipe, some wire, and some beads or other decorations.

First, cut the pipe to the desired length. You can either use a hacksaw or a power drill with a cutting bit. The best length in our opinion is around 1/8. Then smoothen the edges to make it look nice.

Next, drill the holes at the end of the pipe and debur them, you will use these to hang the chime later. The support disk can be as simple or as complex as you like, it’s up to you what you like the most, don’t drill holes inside it too. A basic hanger can be made by bending the wire into a U-shape and attaching it to the top of the pipe and tying it together with the support ring. Don’t forget to thread the sail and the striker as well. Go with any support material you like as it has 0 impact on the sound. [4]

Why wont my wind chimes chime?

Wind chimes are designed to create a pleasant sound when the wind blows through them. If your wind chimes are not making any sound, the main reason is simply that they don’t catch enough wind. Position your wind chimes in an area where they will get a lot of wind. If you live in a windy area, this won’t be a problem, but if you live in a calm area, you may need to hang your chimes near a porch or doorway to ensure that they get enough wind. Trying to hang them higher may solve the issue as well.

The wind chimes could also be too close to other objects. When wind chimes are too close to other objects, it disrupts the airflow and prevents them from making a sound. Move your wind chimes away from any obstructions and give them plenty of room to swing freely in the breeze. [6]

How do you adjust a wind chime tube?

The first step is to find the right spot for your wind chime. Once you have found the perfect place, you need to make sure that the tube is in the correct position. If it is too high or low, adjust it until it is in the right spot. Make sure that the wind chime is facing in the direction you want it to go before hanging it up.

If there are any problems with the sound, you can also adjust the length of each pipe, longer pipes will give off deeper sounds while shorter pipes will sound more high-pitched. Just make sure that they are all even so that they produce a beautiful melody. There are many tables online that will help you to get the ideal proportion for your material. You can use a marker to mark where each pipe should be cut if necessary. When cutting, make sure that you cut in a clean line and avoid any jagged edges, although you can always sand them later. [4], [9]

How do you make a wind chime out of aluminum pipe?

Making a wind chime out of aluminum pipe is a great way to recycle old piping and create a beautiful garden decoration.

Simply cut the pipe to the desired length, and use a drill to cut notches in one end of each pipe. Use a thread or wire and run it through the notches, then tie a knot to hang your chime bells on the supporting platform.

If you’re looking for a more polished look, you can also use a metal file to smooth down any rough edges. Finally, coat the pipes with a clear sealant to protect them from the elements. [4], [5]

Can you make wind chimes out of PVC pipe?

Yes, you can make wind chimes out of PVC pipe. It will sound much different from the other metal chimes as it will produce a sound similar to wood.

PVC pipes are accessible and they are more durable than you’d expect. You also have more freedom with decorating them as they can be painted, giving you a colorful look! [1], [7]

How many tubes should a wind chime have?

The number of tubes on a wind chime is mostly personal preference, but it’s generally agreed that the more tubes there are, the better the sound will be. However, if you have too many tubes, they may become tangled and difficult to play. Four or eight tubes is a good number to aim for.

Eight-chime wind chimes can be quite expensive, but if you have the money to spare they’re definitely worth it for the amazing sound they will offer you. [8]

What materials are best for wind chime pipes?

While there are many materials that can be used for wind chime pipes, the most popular ones are metal tubes made of aluminum, brass, or steel. These materials are durable, weather-resistant, and produce a clear and resonant sound when struck by the wind. Other materials that can be used include bamboo, glass, ceramic, and wood.

What is the ideal length for wind chime pipes?

The ideal length for wind chime pipes depends on the desired pitch and tone. For example, shorter pipes produce higher-pitched sounds, while longer pipes produce lower-pitched sounds. As a general rule, wind chime pipes should be between 6 and 12 inches in length for optimal sound quality.

What diameter should wind chime pipes be?

The diameter of wind chime pipes also affects the sound they produce. Thicker pipes produce deeper, more resonant sounds, while thinner pipes produce higher-pitched sounds. As a general rule, wind chime pipes should have a diameter of between 1/2 and 1 inch for optimal sound quality.

How can I tune my wind chime pipes?

To tune wind chime pipes, you can use a pitch pipe or a tuning fork to determine the desired pitch for each pipe. Once you have determined the pitch, you can adjust the length of each pipe by cutting it to the appropriate length. It’s important to note that each pipe should be tuned to a different pitch to create a harmonious and balanced sound.

How should I hang my wind chime pipes?

Wind chime pipes should be hung at different heights and angles to create a dynamic and visually appealing display. You can hang them from a tree branch, a porch overhang, or a specially designed stand. It’s important to ensure that the pipes are evenly spaced and that they can move freely in the wind to produce sound.

How do I care for my wind chime pipes?

To ensure that your wind chime pipes last for many years, it’s important to care for them properly. You should clean them regularly with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to remove dirt and grime. You should also protect them from extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or high winds, which can damage the pipes or the hanging mechanism. Additionally, you can apply a protective coating to the pipes to prevent rust or corrosion.

What are the benefits of using metal pipes for wind chimes?

Metal pipes have several benefits for wind chimes. They are durable and long-lasting, so you won’t have to replace them as often as other materials. They are also weather-resistant, so you can leave them outside without worrying about damage from rain or snow. Additionally, metal pipes produce a clear and resonant sound that is pleasing to the ear.

What is the best way to hang wind chime pipes?

The best way to hang wind chime pipes is to use a sturdy hanging mechanism, such as a metal hook or wire. You should ensure that the mechanism is securely attached to the pipes and can support the weight of the chimes. It’s also important to hang the pipes at different heights and angles to create a dynamic and visually appealing display.

What should I consider when choosing wind chime pipe materials?

When choosing wind chime pipe materials, you should consider several factors, including durability, weather resistance, and sound quality. Metal pipes are popular for their durability and weather resistance, while bamboo and wood pipes are valued for their natural aesthetic and earthy sound. Glass and ceramic pipes can produce a delicate and ethereal sound, but they may be more fragile and require careful handling.

How can I create a unique wind chime design using pipe materials?

There are many ways to create a unique wind chime design using pipe materials. You can experiment with different lengths and diameters of pipes to create a range of pitches and tones. You can also combine different materials, such as metal and wood, to create a contrasting visual and auditory effect. Additionally, you can add embellishments, such as beads or shells, to the hanging mechanism to create a personalized and decorative touch.

What is the best way to hang wind chime pipes in a windy area?

If you live in a windy area, it’s important to ensure that your wind chime pipes are securely anchored and can withstand strong gusts of wind. You can use a heavy-duty hanging mechanism, such as a metal chain or wire, to support the weight of the chimes. You can also hang the pipes from a sturdy structure, such as a pergola or trellis, to provide additional support. It’s important to avoid hanging the pipes in areas where they may come into contact with other objects, such as walls or trees, which can dampen the sound.

What is the difference between tubular and rod wind chime pipes?

Tubular wind chime pipes are hollow tubes made of metal or other materials, while rod wind chime pipes are solid rods that are typically made of metal. Tubular pipes produce a clearer and more resonant sound than rod pipes, which can have a duller or muffled tone. However, rod pipes can be more versatile and easier to tune than tubular pipes, as their pitch is determined by their length rather than their diameter.

What are some creative wind chime pipe designs for children?

Wind chime pipes can be a fun and creative project for children. One design idea is to use colorful plastic straws or drinking cups as the pipes, which can produce a cheerful and whimsical sound. Another idea is to use seashells or other natural materials as the hanging mechanism, which can create a beachy or coastal vibe. Children can also decorate the pipes with paint or markers to create a personalized and colorful design.

Final thoughts

A metal rod can be the perfect material for wind chimes. Metal pipes are the most weatherproof and robust of all materials. They may also be conveniently tuned to a particular series of sounds. Nevertheless, the pipes that you pick is a personal choice, as each component of a wind chime contributes significantly to the sound generated by the wind.

References:

1. https://backyardscape.com/the-best-pipe-for-wind-chimes/
2. https://www.chicaandjo.com/make-copper-wind-chimes/
3. https://backyardscape.com/copper-wind-chimes/
4. http://leehite.org/Chimes.htm
5. https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/how-to-plans/how-to/a7426/how-to-make-your-own-wind-chimes/
6. https://www.gaiachimes.com/blog/Why-doesnt-my-wind-chimes-chime.html
7. https://homesteady.com/13425778/how-to-build-wind-chimes-with-pvc-pipe
8. https://www.rampfesthudson.com/how-many-rods-should-a-wind-chime-have/
9. https://www.gardenhomey.com/wind-chime-pipe-lengths/