The Simpson CCQ68SDS2.5 CCQ Column Cap for 6x Beam and 8x Post with Strong-Drive SDS Screws is engineered by Simpson Strong-Tie to deliver high-capacity column-to-beam connections in wood construction. The extended bearing seat reaches beyond each side of the column to distribute load from the beam across a greater surface area, providing robust support at the connection point. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws replace standard through bolts for faster installation while engaging a greater net section area of the column - all in a lower-profile assembly built from 7-gauge steel with certified welds that meet demanding structural requirements.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - replace standard through bolts for faster installation and engage a greater net section area of the column, strengthening the overall connection
• Lower-profile fastener design - SDS screws sit flush without the bulk of traditional through bolts, keeping the connection clean and reducing interference with surrounding framing
• Certified welds throughout - independently verified weld quality gives builders and inspectors confidence in the connector's rated strength and load capacity
• Increased uplift load ratings - uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, making this cap suitable for projects in high-wind and seismic zones
• Extended bearing seat - the seat provides an additional surface area of bearing that extends beyond each side of the column, distributing beam load more effectively than a standard cap
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allow the installer to hold the cap in position during layout and alignment before final fastening, reducing installation errors
• 7-gauge steel construction - heavy-duty material thickness supports substantial structural loads in post-and-beam and column applications
• Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - factory-applied coating provides a consistent, professional appearance and baseline corrosion resistance for the connector

Why This Product

• A single connector that handles the full connection - the CCQ is designed to provide strong column-beam connections while generally eliminating the need for additional brackets or braces, simplifying both design and installation
• Built for code-sensitive structural applications - certified welds and increased uplift load ratings for earthquake or wind loading make this cap a reliable choice for projects in demanding load environments
• Faster, cleaner installation than bolt-based alternatives - Strong-Drive SDS screws attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails, while delivering a lower profile and quicker drive time on the job
• Engineered load distribution at the post-to-beam joint - the extended bearing seat spreads load from the beam across a larger surface area beyond each side of the column, supporting connection integrity under heavy structural loads

Specifications

• MPN: CCQ68SDS2.5
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Member Size: 6x beam; 8x post
• Nominal Beam Width: 6x
• Beam Width: 5-1/4 in. or 5-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 5-1/2 in.
• Width 2: 7-1/2 in.
• Length 1: 11 in.
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Nominal Post Size: 8x
• Gauge: 7
• Coating: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Country of Origin: United States

What's Included

• 1 CCQ68SDS2.5 Column Cap
• (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212)

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are SDS screws used instead of standard through bolts?

The Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts and attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails, resulting in faster installation without sacrificing connection strength.

How many SDS screws are required to install the CCQ68SDS2.5?

Installation requires (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212), which are included with the column cap. Note that lag screws will not achieve the same load.

Is this column cap suitable for use in high-wind or seismic zones?

Yes. Uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, making the CCQ68SDS2.5 appropriate for projects requiring enhanced resistance to these forces.

What is the purpose of the diamond holes on the CCQ68SDS2.5?

The diamond holes are designed for temporary fastening during the installation process, helping to position and hold the column cap in place before final fastening with the SDS screws.

Related Products

• CCOQ - Column Cap Only (no straps), available for field-welding to pipe or other columns; dimensions are the same as the CCQ.
• ECCOQ - End Column Cap with Legs Omitted, available for field-welding to pipe or other columns; dimensions are the same as the ECCQ.

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