The Simpson Ornamental Column Base for 4x4 posts is a cast-in-place connector engineered to anchor wood post members at their base while preventing rotation at the connection point. Finished in a flat black powder coat, this column base delivers a clean, low-profile appearance when the base plate sits flush with the concrete surface, making it a practical choice for structural post installations, pergolas, arbors, covered porches, and decorative outdoor assemblies where a refined finish matters as much as connection performance.

Key Features

• Cast-in-Place Base Plate Design - installs flush with the concrete surface so there is no exposed hardware ledge, producing a finished, polished look in both structural and ornamental applications
• Rotation Prevention Geometry - precision-engineered to resist post rotation at the base connection, keeping 4x4 wood members stable and properly aligned over time
• Black Powder-Coat Finish - delivers a more durable and visually refined surface than standard paint, standing up to outdoor exposure while complementing decorative post and column designs
• Wind and Seismic Load Allowance - allowable loads can be increased 60% for wind or earthquake loading, supporting use in demanding structural applications without requiring a different connector
• Made in the United States - produced domestically by Simpson, reflecting consistent manufacturing standards for a connector used in load-bearing and ornamental post base connections alike

Why This Product

• Structural performance with a decorative finish - the black powder-coat surface means this post base works equally well in visible outdoor settings like pergolas and porches as it does in purely structural column installations, eliminating the need to choose between appearance and function
• Flush mounting keeps the installation clean - because the base plate sits flush with the concrete surface, there is no raised lip or exposed hardware to detract from the finished look of a post or column base, a meaningful advantage in any project where aesthetics are a priority
• Built-in capacity for wind and seismic events - the 60% load increase allowable for wind or earthquake conditions is already engineered into this connector, giving builders and homeowners added confidence for outdoor structures in variable climate regions
• Precise fit for standard 4x4 lumber - with dimensions sized specifically for 4x4 wood post members, this base fits standard lumber without modification, reducing installation time and the risk of fitting errors on the jobsite

Specifications

• Model Number: OCB44
• Gauge: 3
• Width 1: 3 9/16 in.
• Width 2: 3 1/2 in.
• Coating / Material: Powder Coating, Black
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Cast-in-place post base connections for 4x4 wood members
• Structural column base installations requiring flush concrete mounting
• Applications requiring wind and seismic load resistance (60% load increase allowable)
• Decorative and ornamental post installations where finish appearance matters
• Outdoor structures including pergolas, arbors, porches, and similar assemblies

Installation Notes

• Required Fasteners: (2) 5/8" Machine Bolts
• Install all models with the bottom of the base plate flush with concrete
• Minimum side cover for full loads is 3" for CBs
• Allowable loads have been increased 60% for wind or earthquake loading. No further increase allowed; reduce where other loads govern.

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw or bolt holes may differ from picture. Please see item description for specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What post size is the OCB44 designed to fit?

The OCB44 is designed specifically for 4x4 wood post members. The connector dimensions include a W1 of 3 9/16 in. and a W2 of 3 1/2 in. to accommodate standard 4x4 lumber.

How does the OCB44 install relative to the concrete surface?

The OCB44 is a cast-in-place column base, meaning the base plate is installed flush with the concrete surface. This creates a clean, low-profile appearance suitable for both structural and decorative applications.

What finish is applied to the OCB44, and how durable is it?

The OCB44 features a flat black powder-coated finish. This coating is described as producing a more durable and better-looking result than standard paint finishes, making it appropriate for applications where appearance matters alongside structural performance.

Is the OCB44 rated for wind and seismic loading?

Yes, the OCB44 is wind and seismic rated. Its allowable loads are increased by 60% for wind or earthquake loading conditions, making it suitable for installations in areas subject to these forces.