The Simpson 8x8 Column Cap with SDS Screws is a heavy-duty structural connector designed for reliable wood column-to-beam connections where load transfer, uplift resistance, and long-term durability are non-negotiable. Built to pair an 8x beam with an 8x post, this column cap arrives ready for fast, high-performance installation with the included 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - no separate hardware sourcing required. Its Hot Dip Galvanized finish makes it a strong choice for exposed or corrosive environments, including coastal and high-humidity job sites.

Key Features

• Extended seat bearing surface - The seat extends beyond each side of the column to help distribute beam loads more evenly across the connection, improving structural integrity at the joint.
• Includes Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - The provided 1/4" x 2-1/2" SDS screws deliver a lower profile than standard through bolts and fasten to a greater net section area of the column, maximizing load capacity without the bulk.
• Hot Dip Galvanized finish - Provides corrosion protection suited for exposed outdoor applications, high-wind zones, and environments where standard finishes would degrade over time.
• 3-gauge steel construction - Heavy-gauge material supports demanding structural loads in applications requiring enhanced uplift resistance, including earthquake and high-wind loading conditions.
• Made in the United States - Manufactured domestically, supporting consistent quality standards for structural connectors used in code-compliant wood construction.

Why This Product

• A complete, installation-ready solution - The column cap ships with the required Strong-Drive SDS screws already included, so installers can get to work immediately without sourcing compatible fasteners separately.
• Purpose-built for tough environmental conditions - The Hot Dip Galvanized finish is specifically suited for corrosive or exposed settings, making this connector a practical choice for outdoor structures, covered patios, pergolas, and similar applications where long-term durability matters.
• Engineered for code-sensitive structural connections - Approved for wood column-to-beam connections requiring enhanced uplift resistance under earthquake or high-wind loading, this cap supports projects where meeting structural performance requirements is critical.
• Faster installation without sacrificing load performance - SDS screw fastening is faster than traditional through-bolt methods and achieves load capacities that lag screws cannot match, helping keep projects on schedule without compromising the connection.

Specifications

• Model Number: CCQ88SDS2.5HDG
• Beam Size: 8x
• Post Size: 8x
• Thickness: 3 gauge
• Finish: Hot Dip Galvanized
• Beam Width: 7-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 7-1/2 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 structural connections
• Applications requiring enhanced uplift resistance for earthquake or high-wind loading conditions
• Construction projects requiring fast installation with SDS screw fastening
• Exposed or corrosive environments where a Hot Dip Galvanized finish is required

What's Included

• CCQ88SDS2.5HDG 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. Lag screws will not achieve the same load.

CCOQ and ECCOQ column cap only (no straps) may be ordered for field-welding to pipe or other columns. Dimensions are same as CCQ and ECCQ.

For rough-cut lumber sizes, contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use SDS screws instead of lag screws with this column cap?

The included 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws are specifically engineered for this connection. Lag screws will not achieve the same load capacity. SDS screws also provide a lower profile than standard through bolts and attach to a greater net section area of the column.

Is the CCQ88SDS2.5HDG suitable for use in high-wind or seismic zones?

Yes. Uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, making this column cap appropriate for applications with elevated lateral and uplift demands.

What is the finish on this column cap, and where can it be used?

This column cap features a Hot Dip Galvanized (HDG) finish, which provides corrosion resistance suitable for exposed conditions or use with treated lumber.