The Simpson 6x8 Column Cap with SDS Screws is a hot dip galvanized structural connector designed to create strong, reliable wood column-to-beam connections in residential and commercial construction. Engineered for a 6x beam and 8x post configuration, this column cap features an extended bearing seat that distributes load from the beam across a greater surface area beyond the column face, reducing stress concentrations at the connection point. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws are included and drive directly into the wood without pre-drilling, making assembly faster and more consistent than traditional bolt-based fastening methods. Built in the United States to meet demanding structural requirements, this connector is a practical choice for projects subject to elevated wind or seismic uplift demands where both performance and installation efficiency are priorities.

Key Features

• Extended bearing seat design - distributes beam load beyond the column face on each side, improving load transfer and reducing point stress at the connection
• Attaches to a greater net section area of the column than standard bolt attachment - delivers higher connection strength without the material removal associated with through-bolt drilling
• Includes 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - no pre-drilling required, allowing faster screw-driven installation compared to conventional lag or bolt hardware
• Hot dip galvanized finish - provides enhanced corrosion resistance suited to exterior structural applications and environments where moisture exposure is a concern
• Lower-profile design - keeps the connector compact relative to the beam and post dimensions, which benefits aesthetics and clearance in finished or semi-exposed structural assemblies
• Certified weld integrity - supports field-welding applications where the cap must be attached to pipe or non-wood columns, broadening the range of compatible connection types
• Made in the United States - consistent manufacturing quality aligned with domestic structural construction standards

Why This Product

• Stronger connection with less material removal - because this column cap attaches to a greater net section area of the column than standard bolt attachment, structural integrity is maintained without the weakening effect of through-bolt holes in the post
• Faster installation with screws included - the included Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws eliminate the need for sourcing separate fasteners or pre-drilling, saving time on the job site without sacrificing connection performance
• Built for high-demand structural environments - the hot dip galvanized finish and robust gauge construction make this connector well suited to wood column-to-beam connections in applications subject to earthquake or wind uplift loading
• Versatile enough for residential and commercial work - approved for use across a broad range of structural connection scenarios, from residential decks and pergolas to commercial framing where certified connection hardware is required

Specifications

• Model Number: CCQ68SDS2.5HDG
• Size: 6x Beam, 8x Post
• Thickness: 7 gauge
• Finish: Hot Dip Galvanized
• 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.
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Wood column-to-beam connections in residential and commercial construction
• Structural connections requiring enhanced load distribution beyond the column face
• Applications subject to elevated uplift demands from earthquake or wind loading
• Projects where a lower-profile fastener solution is preferred over standard through bolts
• Installations requiring fast, screw-driven assembly with certified weld integrity

What's Included

• 1 x CCQ68SDS2.5HDG Column Cap (Hot Dip Galvanized)
• 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (provided with the column cap)

Installation Notes

• Install with 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are provided with the column cap
• Important: Lag screws will not achieve the same load - use only the specified SDS screws
• For field-welding applications to pipe or other columns, the CCOQ and ECCOQ column cap only (no straps) versions may be ordered - dimensions are the same as the CCQ and ECCQ
• For rough-cut lumber sizes, contact us for assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lag screws instead of the provided SDS screws?

No. Install with 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are provided with the column cap. Lag screws will not achieve the same load.

Why does the column cap seat extend beyond the sides of the column?

The extended bearing surface helps distribute the load from the beam and provide support for the connection, resulting in a stronger, more stable column-beam joint.

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

Yes. Uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, making the CCQ68SDS2.5HDG appropriate for applications where elevated uplift performance is required.