The Simpson ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS End Column Cap delivers a high-capacity connection for column-beam combinations at the end of a beam, purpose-built for a 3-1/8 in. beam paired with a 4x post. Fabricated from 7-gauge steel and finished with hot-dip galvanization, this end column cap is engineered for exterior structural applications and connections involving pressure-treated or chemically treated lumber where corrosion resistance is critical. Simpson Strong-Tie connectors are engineered, tested, and manufactured to the highest quality standards, making them the trusted choice of engineers and contractors for structural connections that need to perform under real-world loading conditions.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS screw installation - screws drive faster than traditional through bolts and preserve a greater net section area of the column, maintaining more of the post's structural integrity at the connection point
• Low-profile SDS fastening - SDS screws sit flush and compact compared to standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner finished appearance and less interference with adjacent framing or finishes
• 7-gauge steel construction - heavy-gauge material provides the rigidity and load capacity required for demanding column-to-beam structural connections in wood construction
• Hot-dip galvanized finish - the HDG coating offers extra corrosion resistance, making this connector well-suited for exterior environments and applications where pressure-treated or chemically treated lumber is used
• Includes all required fasteners - Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws are included with the connector, so the installation is complete with a single purchase and no separate hardware sourcing is needed

Why This Product

• Engineered for end-of-beam column connections - the ECCQ series is specifically designed for end-of-beam column-to-beam applications, meaning the geometry, fastener pattern, and load path are optimized for exactly this structural condition rather than adapted from a general-purpose connector
• HDG coating goes beyond standard galvanizing - hot-dip galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance compared to lighter coatings, making this connector a reliable choice for outdoor structures, covered porches, pergolas, and framing that contacts treated lumber
• SDS screws simplify the job without sacrificing strength - replacing through bolts with included Strong-Drive SDS screws speeds up installation, eliminates the need for drilling full through-holes, and preserves more of the post cross-section, all without reducing connection performance
• Manufactured to code-compliant standards - Simpson Strong-Tie connectors are engineered and tested for structures that must comply with building codes, including those addressing wind and earthquake loading, giving builders and inspectors documented confidence in the connection

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS
• Beam Width: 3-1/8 in.
• Post Size: 4x
• Dimension W1: 3-1/4 in.
• Dimension W2: 3-5/8 in.
• Dimension L: 8-1/2 in.
• Dimension H: 7 in.
• Material: 7-Gauge Steel
• Finish / Coating: Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG)
• SDS Screws Included (Beam): 14 qty - 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• SDS Screws Included (Post): 14 qty - 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Exterior structural applications requiring corrosion-resistant hardware
• Connections involving pressure-treated or chemically treated lumber
• Structures requiring compliance with building codes for earthquake or wind loading

What's Included

• 1 x Simpson Strong-Tie ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS End Column Cap
• 28 x 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (14 for beam, 14 for post)

Installation

Fasten with the included

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam and post sizes is the ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS designed for?

This end column cap is designed for use with a 3-1/8 in. wide beam and a 4x post, providing a high-capacity connection for that specific column-beam combination.

What fasteners are used to install this column cap, and are they included?

The ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS installs using 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are included with the product. These screws allow for faster installation and provide a greater net section area of the column compared to standard through bolts, while also delivering a lower-profile connection.

Why is the hot-dip galvanized (HDG) finish significant for this connector?

The hot-dip galvanized coating offers extra corrosion resistance compared to standard finishes, making this column cap well suited for exterior applications and use with treated wood, where exposure to moisture or corrosive preservatives could degrade lesser coatings over time.

What material and gauge of steel is this column cap made from?

The ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS is fabricated from 7-gauge steel, which provides robust strength and load-carrying capacity for demanding structural column-beam connections.