The Simpson 8-3/4 x 8 Column Cap with SDS Screws is a heavy-duty structural connector designed to create strong, reliable wood column-to-beam connections in demanding construction applications. Built by Simpson and made in the United States, this column cap features an extended bearing seat that distributes beam loads beyond each side of the column, delivering critical support where it matters most. It installs using Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - included with the cap - and attaches to a greater net section area of the column than a standard bolt attachment, making it a high-performance solution for structural framing that must stand up to earthquake or wind uplift loading.

Key Features

• Extended bearing seat - The seat of the column cap extends beyond each side of the column, helping distribute beam loads across a broader surface and providing critical support for the overall connection rather than concentrating stress at a single point.
• SDS screw installation - Uses Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws for a faster, simpler installation compared to through-bolt methods, reducing labor time on the job site without sacrificing structural performance.
• Greater net section attachment area - Fastens to more of the column's net section area than a standard bolt attachment, resulting in a stronger, more capable connection in high-load structural applications.
• Gray paint finish - Provides a consistent, professional appearance and baseline surface protection suited for structural wood framing environments.
• Approved for seismic and wind uplift applications - Engineered to resist earthquake and wind uplift loading, making it appropriate for use in regions with demanding code requirements for lateral and uplift resistance.

Why This Product

• Screws are included - The required 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws come packaged with the column cap, so installers have everything needed for a code-consistent connection right out of the box.
• Stronger column attachment than standard bolts - By engaging a greater net section area of the column, this cap delivers a higher-performing connection than conventional through-bolt hardware, benefiting structural applications where load capacity is a priority.
• Versatile for code-required structural conditions - Approved for wood column-to-beam connections subject to earthquake or wind uplift loading, making this cap a practical choice for a wide range of residential and commercial structural framing projects.
• Low-profile fastener solution - SDS screw attachment eliminates the need for through bolts and the access requirements they involve, simplifying the installation process in tight or finished framing conditions.

Specifications

• Model Number: CCQ98SDS2.5
• Size: 8-3/4 x Beam, 8 x Post
• Thickness: 3 Gauge
• Finish: Gray Paint
• Beam Width: 8-3/4 in.
• Width 1: 8-7/8 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 structural construction
• Applications requiring resistance to earthquake or wind uplift loading
• Connections where a low-profile fastener solution is preferred over standard through bolts
• Installations requiring attachment to a greater net section area of the column

What's Included

• CCQ98SDS2.5 Column Cap
• 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.
• Note: Lag screws will not achieve the same load as the provided SDS screws.
• For field-welding applications to pipe or other columns, see the CCOQ and ECCOQ column cap only (no straps) options, which may be ordered for field-welding to pipe or other columns. Dimensions are the same as the CCQ and ECCQ.
• For rough-cut lumber sizes, contact us for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of screws should be used to install the CCQ98SDS2.5?

The CCQ98SDS2.5 should be installed with 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are included with the column cap. Lag screws will not achieve the same load values.

Why are SDS screws used instead of standard through bolts?

The SDS screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts and allow attachment to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails, resulting in a stronger and cleaner connection.

Is the CCQ98SDS2.5 suitable for high-wind or seismic zones?

Yes. Uplift loads for this column cap have been increased to meet the demands of earthquake or wind loading conditions, making it suitable for use in high-wind or seismic applications.

Can this column cap be used for field-welding to pipe or other columns?

The CCQ98SDS2.5 itself is designed for wood construction. For field-wel