The Simpson CCQ7.1-8SDS2.5 CCQ Column Cap by Simpson is engineered to deliver a strong, reliable column-to-beam connection in wood construction applications. Sized for a 7 in. beam width and a nominal 8x post, this cap features an extended bearing seat that spreads load from the beam across a greater surface area beyond each side of the column - reducing stress concentrations and supporting the overall connection. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws are used in place of standard through bolts, attaching to a greater net section area of the column for a structurally sound and clean installation. Built from 3-gauge steel with a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, this column cap is designed to generally eliminate the need for additional brackets or braces across a wide range of structural framing projects.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - installs with (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. SDS screws right out of the box, so there is no need to source fasteners separately
• Lower-profile SDS screw attachment - keeps the connection cleaner and less obtrusive than standard through bolts while attaching to a greater net section area of the column
• Extended bearing seat design - the seat surface area extends beyond each side of the column to help distribute beam loads more evenly and provide added support at the connection point
• Certified welds - provide confidence in strength and loading performance for demanding structural applications where connection integrity is critical
• Increased uplift load ratings - uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, making this cap suitable for high-wind and seismic construction requirements
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allow the cap to be held in position during layout and alignment before final installation, improving accuracy on the job
• 3-gauge steel construction - heavy-duty material thickness supports high-capacity structural connections in post-and-beam framing
• Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - provides a uniform, corrosion-resistant coating suited for interior structural framing environments

Why This Product

• Everything needed for installation is included - the (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws come with the cap, so contractors and builders can go straight to work without additional hardware runs
• Built for seismic and high-wind zones - with uplift loads specifically increased for earthquake or wind loading and certified welds throughout, this column cap is a dependable choice for structurally demanding environments
• Simplifies the framing connection - the CCQ series is designed to generally eliminate the need for additional brackets or braces, reducing material costs and complexity at the post-to-beam junction
• Precision fit for 7 in. beam and 8x post framing - sized specifically for this member combination, the cap integrates cleanly into the structural assembly without field modification or guesswork

Specifications

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

What's Included

• 1 x Simpson CCQ7.1-8SDS2.5 Column Cap
• (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212)

Frequently Asked Questions

What fasteners are required to install the CCQ7.1-8SDS2.5, and are they included?

This column cap installs with (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212), which are included with the column cap. Note that lag screws will not achieve the same load as the specified SDS screws.

Why are SDS screws used instead of standard through bolts?

The Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts and attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails, contributing to a stronger and cleaner installation.

Is this column cap rated for earthquake or high-wind applications?

Yes. Uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading, and certified welds provide confidence in strength and loading performance for demanding structural applications.

Can the CCQ column cap be used with pipe or non-wood columns?

The CCOQ and ECCOQ column cap only (no straps) variants may be ordered for field-welding to pipe or other columns. Their dimensions are the same as the CCQ and ECCQ. See the Related Products section below for more information.

Related Products

• CCOQ - Column Cap Only (no straps), available for field-welding to pipe or other columns; same dimensions as CCQ
• ECCOQ - End Column Cap Legs Omitted Quick-Install, available for field-welding; same dimensions as ECCQ

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw holes may differ from picture. For rough-cut lumber sizes, contact us and provide dimensions.