The Simpson CCQ7.1-4SDS2.5 Column Cap is a heavy-duty structural connector from Simpson Strong-Tie engineered to create strong, reliable column-to-beam connections in wood construction. Sized for a 7-inch wide beam and a 4x nominal post, this connector is designed to generally eliminate the need for additional brackets or braces, simplifying structural assemblies. The extended seat reaches beyond each side of the column to increase bearing surface area, helping distribute beam loads and reinforce the connection at the point where column meets beam. Rather than relying on traditional through-bolts, this column cap uses Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - included with the connector - for faster installation and attachment to a greater net section area of the column.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - installation-ready right out of the box, saving time and eliminating a separate fastener purchase
• Lower-profile SDS screw attachment - provides a cleaner, less obtrusive connection than standard through-bolt assemblies, beneficial where appearance or clearance matters
• Extended seat bearing surface - distributes the load from the beam across a greater area of the column, improving load transfer and overall connection integrity
• Increased uplift load ratings for earthquake and wind loading - gives builders confidence that the connection meets demands in high-wind and seismic design environments
• Certified welds - provides verified strength and loading assurance, reducing uncertainty in structural applications
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allows the connector to be quickly positioned and held in place during installation before final fasteners are driven
• 3-gauge steel construction - delivers the thickness and rigidity required for high-capacity structural connections in demanding wood construction applications
• Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - provides a consistent, finished appearance suited to structural framing environments

Why This Product

• Screws included, bolts not needed - the CCQ7.1-4SDS2.5 ships with the required Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws already included, and the SDS fastening system attaches to a greater net section area of the column than a typical bolt connection, making this a more efficient and complete structural solution from the start
• Built to handle real-world lateral forces - with uplift loads specifically increased to address earthquake and wind loading scenarios, this column cap is well-suited for structural wood framing projects in regions where code compliance for lateral and uplift resistance is a design requirement
• Designed to simplify the overall connection - the extended bearing seat and heavy-gauge construction generally eliminate the need for additional brackets or braces at the column-to-beam junction, reducing hardware complexity and labor on the job site
• Quality backed by certified welds and domestic manufacturing - certified welds confirm that each connector meets defined strength and loading standards, giving engineers, contractors, and builders a dependable product for critical structural connections

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): CCQ7.1-4SDS2.5
• Manufacturer: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Beam Width: 7 in.
• Nominal Post Size: 4x
• Member Size: 7 in. beam, 4x post
• Width 1: 7-1/8 in.
• Width 2: 3-5/8 in.
• Length 1: 11 in.
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Steel Gauge: 3-Gauge
• Finish / Coating: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections in wood construction projects requiring high-capacity load transfer
• Structural applications where uplift resistance due to earthquake or wind loading is a design requirement
• Projects where a lower-profile fastener connection is preferred over standard through-bolt assemblies
• Wood construction where eliminating the need for additional brackets or braces is desired
• Connections requiring extended bearing surface area to distribute beam loads across the column

What's Included & Installation

This column cap includes (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (Model: SDS25