The Simpson 5-1/2 in. T-Shape Column Cap for GFCMU and Concrete Piers with SDS Screws is a heavy-gauge embedded connector engineered by Simpson for raised pier foundation construction where heavy beams bear on concrete or concrete block columns. Its T-shape configuration combines a main channel with a 90 deg. side stirrup, making it the right choice for non-corner, intermediate floor support beam locations that require a perpendicular side beam connection. Paired with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws and certified welds, this column cap is built to deliver the uplift and lateral resistance that high-wind zone applications demand.

Key Features

• T-shape design with integrated side stirrup - supports a main beam and a perpendicular side beam simultaneously, making it purpose-built for intermediate floor support locations that need a 90 deg. beam-to-beam connection.
• Optimized SDS screw pattern - fastener placement is specifically configured to achieve high uplift design values, giving buyers confidence in performance under wind uplift and lateral load conditions.
• Certified welds throughout - every weld is certified for strength and loading consistency, so contractors and engineers can rely on predictable, code-supportable connections.
• SSTB offset layout for flush pier-edge installation - the anchor bolt spacing is designed to align with standard pier layouts and allows the cap to sit flush to the edge of the pier, simplifying placement and reducing field adjustment.
• Heavy 7-gauge steel construction - the thick steel beam seat provides robust, long-term support for heavy beams resting on concrete or masonry columns without flexing under load.
• Gray paint finish - provides a protective coating suited to the embedded and partially exposed environments typical of pier foundation applications.
• Compatible with concrete and GFCMU columns - approved for use on both poured concrete piers and concrete block columns, giving builders flexibility across a range of pier foundation assemblies.

Why This Product

• Built for high-wind zone reliability - the combination of a certified-weld structure, SDS screw configuration optimized for uplift, and heavy-gauge steel means this cap is specifically approved for applications requiring enhanced uplift and lateral resistance, not just a general-purpose connector.
• Solves the intermediate beam junction problem - the T-shape geometry handles a use case that straight caps cannot: anchoring a primary beam while simultaneously accepting a perpendicular side beam at a non-corner location, eliminating the need for field-fabricated solutions.
• Simplifies installation on standard pier layouts - the SSTB spacing is calibrated to common pier dimensions and the flush-edge offset design reduces layout time, making this cap practical for both new construction and retrofit raised pier foundation work.
• Made in the United States by Simpson - the cap is a domestic product from a manufacturer with a recognized reputation in structural connectors, supporting projects where material origin and consistent quality documentation matter.

Specifications

• Model Number: CCTQM5.50-SDS
• Description: 5.50" Masonry CC T-Shape w/SDS Screws
• Main Channel Width (W1): 5-1/2 in.
• Side Stirrup Width (W3 and W4): 5-1/2 in.
• Main Channel Length (L1): 13-1/2 in.
• Side Stirrup Length (L2): 4 in.
• Material: 7 gauge steel
• Finish: Gray Paint
• Fasteners Included: 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Raised pier foundation construction
• Applications where heavy beams bear on concrete columns
• Applications where heavy beams bear on concrete block (GFCMU) columns
• Non-corner, intermediate floor support beam locations requiring a 90-degree side beam connection
• High-wind zones requiring enhanced uplift and lateral resistance

What's Included

• 1 x CCTQM5.50-SDS T-Shape Column Cap
• 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws

Options

Configurations for many different beams or beam-to-beam combinations can be manufactured. Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of foundation is the CCTQM5.50-SDS designed for?

The CCTQM5.50-SDS is designed specifically for raised pier foundations where heavy beams rest on concrete columns or concrete block (GFCMU) columns. It is an embedded column cap suited to both new construction and retrofit pier foundation applications.

What makes this a T-shape column cap, and where should it be installed?

The T-shape refers to the cap's main channel combined with a side stirrup that accommodates an intermediate support beam at a 90-degree angle. This cap is intended for use along a floor support beam at non-corner locations - not at the corners of a structure - where an intersecting beam connection is needed.

What fasteners are included, and why are SDS screws used?

The CCTQM5.50-SDS includes 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws. These screws are specifically configured to provide high uplift design values, making them well-suited to connections that must resist the forces associated with high-wind events.

What are the main channel and side stirrup dimensions for this model?

The main channel width (W1) is 5-1/2 in. and the main channel length (L1) is 13-1/2 in. The side stirrup width (W3 and W4) is 5-1/2 in. and the side stirrup length (L2) is 4 in. The cap is constructed from 7-gauge steel with a gray paint finish.

Note: Product dimensions may differ from picture.