The Simpson 6 x 8 Column Base in Textured Black Powder-Coat is a cast-in-place post base engineered by Simpson to anchor 6 x 8 wood columns securely to concrete foundations, piers, and slabs. Built from 7-gauge steel and finished in a textured flat black powder coat, this column base is designed for both structural reliability and architectural appeal - making it a practical choice for residential and commercial applications where a clean, finished look at the post-to-concrete connection is just as important as load-bearing performance.

Key Features

• Cast-in-Place Base Plate Design - The base plate installs flush with the concrete surface, resulting in a low-profile, finished appearance that suits exposed architectural settings as well as structural builds.
• Rotation Resistance at the Column Base - Engineered to help prevent 6 x 8 wood column members from rotating about the base, adding stability to post-to-concrete connections in supported structures.
• Wind and Seismic Load Capacity - Allowable loads are increased 60% for wind or earthquake loading, making this base suitable for structures in regions with elevated lateral load requirements.
• Textured Black Powder-Coat Finish - A more durable and visually refined surface treatment than standard paint, resisting wear while complementing both traditional and contemporary architectural styles.
• Heavy-Gauge 7-Gauge Steel Construction - The substantial steel thickness delivers the structural integrity needed for reliable column anchoring in both residential and commercial settings.
• 3-Inch Minimum Side Cover for Full Loads - Clear installation guidelines help ensure the connection achieves its full rated capacity when properly embedded in concrete.

Why This Product

• Structural and Aesthetic in One - The textured black powder-coat finish means this column base performs in load-bearing applications without sacrificing appearance, a combination that matters in visible or finished spaces.
• Built for Wind and Seismic Applications - With allowable loads increased 60% for wind or earthquake loading, this base is well-suited for projects where lateral force resistance is a design requirement.
• Made in the United States - Produced domestically by Simpson, this column base reflects consistent manufacturing standards expected in professional construction and renovation projects.
• Precise Fit for 6 x 8 Column Members - Dimensioned specifically for nominal 6 x 8 lumber, this base eliminates guesswork and ensures a properly fitted, code-conscious connection at the foundation.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Model / MPN: CB68PC
• Nominal Column Size: 6 x 8
• Finish: Textured Black Powder-Coat
• Material Gauge: 7 Gauge Steel
• Fasteners Required: (2) 5/8" Bolts (sold separately)
• For Treated Lumber: No
• Width 1: 5-1/2 in.
• Width 2: 7-1/2 in.
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Anchoring 6 x 8 wood columns to concrete foundations, piers, or slabs
• Residential and commercial post-to-concrete connections
• Architectural applications where a clean, finished appearance is required
• Structures requiring wind or seismic load resistance
• Not recommended for non-top-supported installations such as fences or freestanding columns, as post bases do not provide adequate resistance to prevent member rotation in those configurations

What's Included

• (1) Simpson Strong-Tie CB68PC Column Base - Textured Black Powder-Coat finish

Note: Fasteners are not included. (2) 5/8" bolts are required for installation.

Installation Guidelines

• Use all specified fasteners as outlined in the installation requirements
• Allowable loads have been increased 60% for wind or earthquake loading; no further increase is allowed - reduce where other loads govern
• Minimum side cover for full loads is 3" for CB-series bases
• Install all models with the bottom of the base plate flush with the concrete surface
• Post bases do not provide adequate resistance to prevent members from rotating about the base and are therefore not recommended for non-top-supported installations such as fences

Disclaimers

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw or bolt holes may differ from picture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size wood column is the CB68PC designed to fit?

The CB68PC is specifically engineered to anchor 6 x 8 wood column members. It is not intended for use with other column dimensions, so confirming your column size before purchasing is important.

How does the CB68PC attach to the concrete foundation?

The CB68PC is a cast-in-place column base, meaning the base plate is installed flush with the concrete surface during the pour. It is secured using two 5/8" bolts, resulting in a clean, low-profile connection between the wood column and the concrete foundation.

Is the CB68PC suitable for use with pressure-treated lumber?

No, the CB68PC is not approved for use with treated lumber. If your application involves pressure-treated wood columns, a different Simpson Strong-Tie column base rated for treated lumber should be selected.

What makes the black powder-coat finish on the CB68PC different from standard paint?

The CB68PC features a textured flat black powder-coat finish, which is described as more durable and better-looking than standard paint. This makes the connector well suited for both structural applications and architectural settings where the appearance of exposed hardware is important.