Simpson Column Bases

Simpson Strong-Tie column bases are built to anchor wood columns to concrete foundations, giving structures like large decks, pergolas, and covered patios the support they need to handle heavy loads. By tying posts directly into concrete, these bases improve stability, reduce movement, and extend the life of the build. Whether the job calls for raising posts above the slab to avoid moisture damage or securing columns directly to the foundation, Simpson’s lineup covers every application with engineered strength.

CB Column Bases

CB column bases are the workhorses for anchoring posts directly to concrete. Built with heavy-gauge steel, they provide a stable and secure connection that can take on serious weight. These are non-standoff bases, meaning the column sits flush with the slab, making them ideal for jobs where moisture exposure isn’t an issue, like covered structures or indoor builds. Carpenters, deck builders, and framers use the CB when they need maximum strength and straightforward installation without worrying about raising the post.

CBS Column Bases

CBS bases are a step up for projects that demand flexibility. These standoff-style bases elevate the column slightly above the concrete, which helps keep moisture from wicking into the wood. Installation uses standard hardware, so contractors can choose fasteners that best suit their build. Think of CBS as a reliable, versatile option for decks, porches, and any outdoor structure where long-term durability is a concern.

CBSQ Column Bases

CBSQ models take the CBS design and streamline installation with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included right out of the box. No need to fuss with extra hardware as these screws deliver strong holding power and a clean, professional look. These standoff bases keep wood off the concrete to protect against rot while saving time on the install. They’re a favorite for pros who want both performance and efficiency on busy jobsites.

CBSTQ Column Bases

CBSTQ column bases are built with toughness in mind. Designed for larger posts and heavier-duty applications, they offer the same moisture-protecting standoff design as CBSQ but with extra reinforcement. These bases handle significant structural loads, making them the choice for big decks, gazebos, or covered entryways where long spans and heavy beams are in play. When stability under pressure matters most, CBSTQ delivers.

ECB Elevated Column Bases

ECB bases raise the bar (literally) with a 2-inch standoff height. That clearance not only protects posts from ground moisture but also creates room for waterproofing materials around the base. Builders working in wet climates or projects with exposed foundations rely on ECB bases to fight decay and extend the life of their posts. Ideal for exterior applications where water management is a priority, they keep wood drier and stronger over time.

MCB Mass Timber Column Bases

MCB bases are engineered specifically for mass timber construction, where the columns are bigger and the loads are massive. These bases deliver the strength to anchor oversized members while transferring heavy forces cleanly into the foundation. MCB is all about structural reliability at scale, which is perfect for commercial, institutional, or large residential builds using glulam or other engineered timbers.

MCBS Mass Timber Column Bases

MCBS bases take the power of MCB but add design improvements for quicker installation and stronger fastening. They’re made for modern mass timber projects, where speed and precision matter as much as raw strength. Like MCB, these bases provide the critical connection between large-format wood columns and concrete, ensuring stability for tall, load-bearing structures.

Why They Matter

A column might carry the weight, but without a solid base, the entire structure is compromised. Moisture, shifting loads, and time all work against stability. Simpson column bases solve these problems by creating a reliable connection between wood and concrete that resists decay, movement, and structural stress. Choosing the right base, whether it’s a standoff design like the CBSQ for moisture protection or a heavy-duty non-standoff CB for direct anchoring, means the difference between a build that lasts a season and one that stands for decades.