The Simpson CCQ88SDS2.5 CCQ Column Cap for 8x Beam and 8x Post with Strong-Drive SDS Screws by Simpson Strong-Tie is engineered to deliver strong, high-capacity column-beam connections in wood construction. The seat of the column cap provides an additional surface area of bearing that extends beyond each side of the column, helping distribute the load from the beam and provide support for the connection. Built from 3-gauge steel with certified welds and a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, this column cap generally eliminates the need for additional brackets or braces, making it a reliable all-in-one solution for structural post-to-beam applications.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts - results in a cleaner, less obtrusive connection that maintains structural integrity without the bulk of traditional bolt hardware
• Attaches to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails - means more of the column's material is engaged, contributing to a stronger and more reliable connection overall
• Certified welds throughout construction - gives buyers confidence in the strength and load performance of every joint in the cap
• Uplift loads have been increased for earthquake or wind loading - makes this column cap appropriate for projects in high-wind or seismic zones where elevated lateral and uplift demands are a concern
• Extended seat bearing surface beyond each side of the column - distributes beam load more evenly, reducing stress concentration at the connection point
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allows the cap to be held in position during installation before final fastening, simplifying the process for one-person or precise placement work
• Made from 3-gauge steel with Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - provides heavy-duty durability and corrosion resistance suited to demanding structural environments

Why This Product

• A complete, ready-to-install connection solution - the included Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws mean no separate trip to the fastener aisle; everything needed for installation comes in the box, saving time and reducing the risk of using an incompatible fastener
• Built for structurally demanding applications - with uplift loads increased for earthquake or wind loading and certified welds, this column cap is engineered to perform where building codes and safety margins matter most, including high-wind and seismic regions
• Eliminates the need for additional brackets or braces - the CCQ's design generally removes the need for supplemental hardware at the column-beam connection, simplifying the structural assembly and reducing overall material costs
• SDS screw attachment engages more of the column than standard bolts - by connecting to a greater net section area, the cap delivers a stronger post-to-beam joint while keeping a lower profile than conventional through-bolt solutions

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): CCQ88SDS2.5
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Member Size: 8x beam, 8x post
• 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.
• Gauge: 3
• Coating/Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Country of Origin: United States

What's Included

• Includes (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212)

Frequently Asked Questions

What fasteners are used to install the CCQ88SDS2.5, and are they included?

The CCQ88SDS2.5 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.

Why use SDS screws 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 connection.

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

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

What steel thickness and finish does the CCQ88SDS2.5 feature?

The CCQ88SDS2.5 is made from 3-gauge steel and features a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish. It also features certified welds for confidence in strength and loading.

Related Products

• CCOQ - Column Cap Only (no straps), available for field-welding to pipe or other columns
• ECCOQ - End Column Cap Legs Omitted, available for field-welding to pipe or other columns

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw holes may differ from picture. For rough-cut lumber sizes or field-welding configurations, contact us for assistance.