The Simpson Strong-Tie CCQ3-4SDS2.5 is a CCQ Series Column Cap engineered to provide strong, high-capacity column-beam connections in wood construction. Designed for a 3-1/8 in. beam width paired with a nominal 4x post, this column cap features an extended seat that provides additional bearing surface area beyond each side of the column - helping to distribute beam loads efficiently and reinforce the connection point. Built from 7-gauge steel with a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, the CCQ3-4SDS2.5 installs using Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (included) for fast, reliable installation with a lower profile than standard through bolts.

Key Features

• Lower Profile Installation: SDS screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner finished appearance.
• Greater Net Section Area: SDS screw attachment engages a greater net section area of the column compared to standard bolt attachment.
• Certified Welds: Certified welds deliver confidence in strength and loading performance.
• Enhanced Uplift Capacity: Uplift loads have been increased to address earthquake or wind loading demands.
• Diamond Holes: Diamond holes allow for temporary fastening during positioning and installation.
• Extended Bearing Seat: The seat extends beyond each side of the column to help distribute the load from the beam and provide additional connection support.
• Heavy-Gauge Steel Construction: Made from 7-gauge steel for robust, long-lasting performance.
• Gray Paint Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish for a durable, consistent appearance.

Specifications

• MPN: CCQ3-4SDS2.5
• Beam Width: 3-1/8 in.
• Nominal Post Size: 4x
• Member Size: 3-1/8 in. beam, 4x post
• Material Gauge: 7-gauge steel
• Finish / Coating: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Fastener Type: 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Structural connections requiring increased uplift capacity for seismic (earthquake) or high-wind loading conditions
• Applications where a lower-profile fastener solution is preferred over standard through bolts
• Projects requiring fast field installation with pre-included SDS connector screws

What's Included

This column cap includes (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212). No additional fasteners are required for standard installation.

Note: Lag screws will not achieve the same load values as the included Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws.

Installation Notes

Install with the included (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212). Lag screws will not achieve the same load.

Related Products

Need a column cap without legs for field-welding to pipe or other column types? The CCOQ and ECCOQ column cap only (no straps) models may be ordered for field-welding to pipe or other columns. Dimensions are the same as the CCQ and ECCQ series.

For rough-cut lumber sizes or custom configurations,

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam width and post size is the CCQ3-4SDS2.5 designed for?

The CCQ3-4SDS2.5 is designed for a 3-1/8 in. beam width paired with a nominal 4x post. The extended seat of the column cap provides additional bearing surface beyond each side of the column to help distribute the load from the beam and reinforce the connection point.

What fasteners are required for installation, and are they included?

Installation requires 30 Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws sized 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. (Model: SDS25212). These screws are included with the column cap, so no separate fastener purchase is necessary.

Why use SDS screws instead of standard through bolts?

Strong-Drive SDS screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner finished appearance. They also attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally provides, contributing to a stronger overall connection.

What material and finish is the CCQ3-4SDS2.5 made from?

The CCQ3-4SDS2.5 is constructed from 7-gauge steel and features a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish. It also incorporates certified welds for confidence in strength and loading performance, and its uplift loads have been increased to address earthquake or wind loading demands.