The Simpson Strong-Tie CCTQ7X-SDS Column Cap is a heavy-duty connector engineered for structural framing assemblies where two beams meet in a "T" formation on top of a column. Built from 3 gauge steel with a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, this column cap provides strong, code-compliant post-to-beam connections in both residential and commercial construction. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws replace standard through bolts, delivering a faster, lower-profile installation for builders and contractors working in demanding structural applications.

Key Features

• T configuration design - supports two beams meeting at a single column top, making it purpose-built for bisecting beam layouts that standard column caps cannot accommodate
• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws installed in all round holes - eliminates the need for through bolts, reducing installation time and keeping a lower profile in the finished assembly
• Diamond holes included on the connector - allow temporary fastening during positioning so the cap can be held in place before final screw installation, reducing the need for extra hands on the job
• 3 gauge steel construction - delivers the structural mass required for load distribution in heavy timber and engineered lumber framing systems
• Configurable stirrup heights and available widths up to 8 in. - accommodates many combinations of beam and post sizes, so the connector can be matched to the exact dimensions of each structural application
• Available in Hot-Dip Galvanized finish - provides a corrosion-resistant option for exterior or high-moisture environments where standard paint finishes may be insufficient
• Can be ordered without column straps for field welding to a steel column - gives structural designers flexibility to integrate the cap into steel column assemblies, with full loads applying for both the beam and post cap

Why This Product

• Built specifically for T configuration framing - where two beams intersect at a single column, general-purpose column caps fall short; this connector is designed from the ground up to distribute loads from bisecting beams effectively in that exact layout
• Faster installation compared to through-bolt methods - Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws drive directly into round holes without drilling through the full beam assembly, saving time on the job site without sacrificing structural integrity
• Flexible sizing and finish options suit a wide range of projects - with configurable stirrup heights, widths up to 8 in., and a Hot-Dip Galvanized finish option, this column cap adapts to varied beam-and-post combinations in both interior and exterior structural applications
• Steel column compatibility expands installation versatility - the no-straps option allows field welding directly to a steel column by the designer, extending use into hybrid wood-steel structural assemblies without any reduction in rated beam or post cap loads

Specifications

• Model Number: CCTQ7X-SDS
• Configuration: T Configuration
• Beam Width W1: 6-3/4 in.
• Main-Beam Stirrup Height (H1): 7 in.
• Side-Beam Stirrups (H2 or H3): Configurable height
• Material: 3 Gauge steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint; also available in HDG (Hot-Dip Galvanized)
• Fastener Type: Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections where two beams meet in a "T" formation on top of a column
• Distributing loads from bisecting beams in structural framing assemblies
• Residential and commercial construction requiring strong, code-compliant post-to-beam connections

What's Included

• CCTQ7X-SDS Column Cap
• 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (for installation in all round holes)

Installation

Install the included 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws in all round holes. Diamond holes are provided for temporary fastening during the installation process.

Options

• Available in widths up to 8" wide.
• Straps may be rotated where W1 != W2.
  
• Many combinations of beam and post sizes can be manufactured Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders .
• Column caps may be ordered without the column straps for field welding to a steel column, full loads apply for the beam and the post cap. Specify "No Straps" when ordering. Weld by designer. These models have no coating.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fasteners are used with the CCTQ7X-SDS?

The CCTQ7X-SDS uses 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are included with the product and installed in all round holes.

What is the beam width (W1) for this model?

The beam width (W1) for the CCTQ7X-SDS is 6-3/4 inches, with a main-beam stirrup height (H1) of 7 inches.

Can the side-beam stirrup heights be adjusted?

Yes. The side-beam stirrups (H2 or H3) can vary in height and are configurable to accommodate different beam and post size combinations.

What finish options are available for the CCTQ7X-SDS?

The CCTQ7X-SDS is finished in Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint as standard. It is also available in HDG (Hot-Dip