The Simpson OCC88 8x8 Ornamental Column Cap is a heavy-duty connector engineered to provide a high-capacity load path for interior column-beam combinations. Built by Simpson as part of the Rustic Collection, this ornamental cap pairs genuine structural performance with a decorative aesthetic, making it equally at home in exposed architectural applications and load-bearing interior framing projects. Its black powder-coat finish gives the connector a refined, finished look that suits visible post-and-beam assemblies in both residential and commercial interiors.

Key Features

• Decorative Notched Edges - A defining characteristic of the Rustic Collection, these notched edges allow the cap to function as a finished architectural detail wherever the connector will remain visible, eliminating the need to conceal hardware.
• Black Powder-Coat Finish - Provides a durable, refined surface that complements exposed timber and post elements while offering protection against wear and surface degradation in interior environments.
• High-Capacity Column-to-Beam Connection - Engineered to efficiently transfer loads from beam to column, supporting a continuous load path that helps structures meet demands imposed by seismic activity or high-wind conditions.
• Uplift Resistance - Designed to enhance uplift resistance, making this cap a practical choice for interior framing projects with seismic or high-wind design requirements.
• Compatible with 8x8 Post and Beam Assemblies - Sized specifically for nominal 8x8 column-beam combinations, so the connector integrates precisely without modification or guesswork during installation.
• Domestic Manufacturing - Produced in the United States, supporting consistent quality standards throughout fabrication.

Why This Product

• Structural and decorative in a single connector - Most heavy-duty column caps are purely utilitarian, but the OCC88 is specifically designed for exposed applications where appearance matters, letting builders achieve a polished, architectural look without sacrificing load-path integrity.
• Purpose-built for 8x8 timber framing - Rather than relying on an adjustable or generic bracket, this cap is sized precisely for nominal 8x8 post-and-beam assemblies, providing a clean, tight fit that supports both structural performance and visual consistency.
• Ready for demanding design requirements - With engineered uplift resistance and a high-capacity connection, this ornamental cap is appropriate for projects where seismic or high-wind performance is a specification requirement, not just an afterthought.
• A cohesive finish from a trusted structural brand - Sourced from Simpson, a brand widely recognized in structural connector applications, the OCC88 gives specifiers and builders confidence that the decorative cap meets the same engineering standards expected of a structural fastening product.

Specifications

• Specification: Detail
• Model Number: OCC88
• Gauge: 3
• Width 1: 7-1/2
• Width 2: 7-1/2
• Height: 7-1/2
• Length: 15
• Coating / Material: Powder Coating, Black
• Required Fasteners: 3/4" Machine Bolts (not included)
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Interior column-beam connections requiring a high-capacity load path
• Exposed-connector architectural and structural applications where appearance matters
• Residential and commercial interior framing projects featuring decorative timber or post elements
• Structures requiring enhanced uplift resistance for seismic or high-wind design requirements
• 8x8 nominal post and beam assemblies within the Indoor Architectural Products category

What's Included

• 1 x Simpson OCC88 Ornamental Column Cap (Black Powder Coat)

Note: Fasteners are required for installation. 3/4" Machine Bolts must be sourced separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the OCC88 suitable for exposed or visible connector applications?

Yes. The OCC88 is part of Simpson's Rustic Collection and features decorative notched edges specifically designed for projects where the connector will be visible. Its black powder-coat finish gives it an attractive, refined appearance that complements exposed interior architectural applications.

What column and beam size is the OCC88 designed for?

The OCC88 is designed for use with 8x8 column-beam combinations, as indicated by the "88" in the model number. It is engineered to provide a high-capacity connection for heavy interior column-beam applications.

Does the OCC88 provide any protection against earthquake or high-wind loads?

Yes. The OCC88 features increased uplift load capacity specifically designed to handle elevated uplift loads associated with earthquake or high-wind conditions. By efficiently distributing the load from the beam to the column, it helps establish and maintain a continuous load path critical for extreme-load events.

What material and construction method is used in the OCC88?

The OCC88 is constructed from heavy-gauge 3 gauge steel and features certified welded construction that meets certification standards for strength and load performance. A black powder-coat finish is applied to provide both a decorative appearance and protection for the connector.