The Simpson CCQ3-6SDS2.5 CCQ Column Cap by Simpson Strong-Tie is engineered to deliver strong, reliable column-beam connections in wood construction, supporting a 3-1/8 in. beam over a 6x post. The seat of the cap extends beyond each side of the column, distributing load from the beam across a wider bearing surface for superior structural support. Rather than relying on standard through-bolt hardware, this cap is designed around Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which attach to a greater net section area of the column and keep the connection lower-profile and cleaner. Certified welds and increased uplift load ratings make it a dependable choice for structures subject to earthquake or wind loading demands.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - 30 qty of 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. SDS screws come with the cap, so installation hardware is ready to go right out of the box
• Lower-profile screw attachment - SDS screws sit flush and unobtrusive compared to standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner finished connection
• Extended seat bearing surface - the seat projects beyond each side of the column to spread beam loads more evenly, reducing concentrated stress at the connection point
• Certified welds - factory-certified weld quality provides verifiable confidence in the strength and load performance of every cap
• Increased uplift load ratings - uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, making this cap appropriate for high-wind and seismic applications
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allow the installer to pin the cap in position during assembly before final fastening, improving alignment accuracy and jobsite efficiency
• 7-gauge steel construction with Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - heavy-gauge steel provides structural rigidity, while the painted finish offers a consistent appearance suited to exposed post-and-beam framing

Why This Product

• All hardware included, ready to install - the cap ships with the required Strong-Drive SDS screws already included, eliminating a separate hardware run and keeping the project on schedule
• Engineered for demanding structural loads - with certified welds and uplift ratings specifically increased for seismic and high-wind conditions, this column cap is built for connections where load performance is non-negotiable
• Greater column engagement than bolted alternatives - SDS screw attachment reaches a greater net section area of the column than a typical bolt connection, providing a mechanically stronger hold across the post-to-beam joint
• Flexible sizing eliminates extra brackets - the extended bearing seat is designed to support the beam connection without requiring additional brackets or braces, simplifying the overall connection assembly

Specifications

• MPN: CCQ3-6SDS2.5
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Member Size: 3-1/8 in. beam, 6x post
• Beam Width: 3-1/8 in.
• Width 1: 3-1/4 in.
• Width 2: 5-1/2 in.
• Length 1: 11 in.
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Nominal Post Size: 6x
• Material Gauge: 7-gauge steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Coating: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• For Treated Lumber: No

What's Included

• Simpson CCQ3-6SDS2.5 Column Cap
• 30 qty - 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212) included

Frequently Asked Questions

Why use SDS screws instead of standard through bolts with this column cap?

The Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws provide faster installation and attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails. They also provide a lower profile than standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner, less obtrusive connection.

How many SDS screws are required to install the CCQ3-6SDS2.5, and are they included?

Installation requires 30 qty of 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 rated for use in high-wind or seismic conditions?

Yes. Uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, and certified welds provide confidence in strength and loading performance, making the CCQ3-6SDS2.5 appropriate for demanding structural applications.

What is the purpose of the diamond holes on this column cap?

The diamond holes are provided for temporary fastening during installation, allowing the column cap to be held in position while permanent SDS screws are driven for the final connection.

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 Legs Omitted Quick-Install, available for field-welding to pipe or other columns; dimensions are the same as the ECCQ
• Contact us for rough-cut lumber sizes or custom dimension requirements

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