The Simpson BCS2-3/6 Post Cap from Simpson Strong-Tie provides a positive, code-compliant mechanical connection between a triple 2x beam and a 6x post for wood deck construction and patio cover applications. Double-shear nailing between the beam and post delivers added structural strength over angled nailing or screw fastening, while the G90 galvanized finish protects the 18-gauge steel connector against corrosion in exposed outdoor environments.

Key Features

• Positive post-to-beam connection - mechanically locks the beam and post together for a secure, load-bearing joint that angled nailing or screw fastening cannot match
• Double-shear nailing design - distributes fastener load across two shear planes for added structural strength at the beam-to-post interface
• Eliminates end-grain nailing - reduces the chance of post splitting by directing fasteners through the cap flanges rather than into exposed end grain
• 18-gauge steel construction - provides durable, rigid support in demanding structural applications including deck framing and patio cover post connections
• G90 galvanized coating - offers enhanced corrosion resistance for long-term performance in outdoor and moisture-exposed installations
• Top-supported installations only - engineered specifically for decks and patio covers where the post is loaded from above, ensuring the connector performs as rated
• Installs with 16d common nails - uses widely available fasteners so there is no need for proprietary hardware to complete the installation

Why This Product

• Stronger than conventional fastening methods - the double-shear nailing geometry between beam and post delivers measurably greater structural performance than angled nailing or screw fastening, giving builders confidence in the connection's integrity
• Purpose-built for triple 2x beam and 6x post framing - sized specifically for this common deck and patio cover framing combination, so the fit is precise and the connection is mechanically positive rather than improvised
• Protects lumber at a vulnerable joint - by eliminating end-grain nailing and reducing the risk of post splitting, the cap preserves the structural integrity of the post over the life of the installation
• Corrosion-resistant finish for outdoor durability - the G90 galvanized coating holds up in the exposed conditions typical of deck and patio cover construction, reducing the risk of premature connector degradation

Specifications

• Model Number: BCS2-3/6
• Member Size: Triple 2x beam, 6x post
• Gauge: 18
• Width 1: 4 5/8 in.
• Width 2: 5 9/16 in.
• Length 1: 4 3/8 in.
• Length 2: 2 7/8 in.
• Height 1: 3 5/16 in.
• Height 2: 2 15/16 in.
• Coating/Finish: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Fasteners Required - Beam Flange: (12) 0.162 x 3-1/2" Nails (sold separately)
• Fasteners Required - Post Flange: (6) 0.162 x 3-1/2" Nails
• Install With: 16d common nails
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Connecting a triple 2x beam to a 6x post in wood deck construction
• Post and beam connections for patio covers
• Top-supported structural post-to-beam installations requiring positive mechanical connection

Downloads and Resources

• View Spec Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam and post sizes is the BCS2-3/6 designed for?

The BCS2-3/6 is sized for a triple 2x beam connected to a 6x post, providing a secure and code-compliant mechanical connection between these nominal lumber sizes.

Why is double-shear nailing important in this post cap?

Double-shear nailing between the beam and post provides added structural strength compared to angled nailing or screw fastening, and it eliminates the need to nail into end grain, which reduces the chance of post splitting.

What fasteners are required to install the BCS2-3/6?

Installation requires 16d common nails. Specifically, the beam flange requires (12) 0.162 x 3-1/2" nails and the post flange requires (6) 0.162 x 3-1/2" nails. Use all specified fasteners for a proper installation.

Can the BCS2-3/6 be used for fences or unbraced carports?

No. Post bases and caps in the BCS series do not provide adequate resistance to prevent members from rotating about the base and are therefore not recommended for non top-supported installations such as fences or unbraced carports.

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