IN PROGRESS — TODAY’S PROJECT

Wind Chime Post

Installing a post on an existing deck railing to hang a wind chime

Project Overview

The goal is simple: fabricate a short vertical post and attach it to an existing deck railing post so a wind chime can be hung at a good height. The post needs to be solid enough to handle the static weight of the chime plus wind-driven swaying — not a demanding load, but it needs to stay put and look right.

After evaluating through-bolts vs structural screws, the choice is Simpson Strong-Drive SDS structural screws — faster, plenty strong for this load, and removable if we ever want to relocate the post.

Why SDS Screws

  • No through-drilling — faster install
  • Excellent shear strength (1,270 lb/screw, DF)
  • Wind chime load is low: weight + sway only
  • Pre-drill 3⁄16" bit prevents splitting
  • Reversible — can relocate post later
  • ICC approved, code compliant

When to Through-Bolt Instead

  • Hollow composite railing (poor screw pullout)
  • Very heavy chime (cast iron, large)
  • Post extends 24"+ above rail
  • Permanent install, never moving

Materials & Hardware

ItemQtyNotes
4×4 cedar post1Cut to desired height + 6" overlap on railing post
Simpson SDS25350 — 1⁄4" x 3-1⁄2" structural screw2–3Pre-drill 3⁄16"; hex head drive
3⁄8" lag eye bolt1Chime hang point at top of post
120-grit sandpaper—Smooth cut ends before install
Exterior wood finish—Optional — match existing railing

Install Steps

  1. Measure desired hang height, cut 4×4 post to length (include 6" overlap at base)
  2. Sand and optionally finish cut ends
  3. Hold post flush against railing post — clamp if possible
  4. Mark two screw locations: upper ~3" from top of overlap, lower ~3" from bottom
  5. Pre-drill 3⁄16" through post and into railing post
  6. Drive Simpson SDS25350 screws — no countersink needed, hex head sits flush
  7. Install 3⁄8" lag eye bolt at top center of post
  8. Hang chime, check for plumb, adjust if needed

Simpson Strong-Tie Reference

ProductPart #Literature
Strong-Drive SDS Heavy Structural Screw 1⁄4" x 3-1⁄2"SDS25350Product Page • T-SDSSCREW
Adjustable Post Base (alt: mount to decking)ABU44Product Page

All Simpson literature: strongtie.com/resources/literature