The Simpson CJT3ZS CJTZ Concealed Joist Tie from Simpson is a 12-gauge steel hidden connector designed to create strong, clean joist-to-beam, joist-to-header, and joist-to-post connections in structural framing. Built for contractors who need reliable concealed connections without sacrificing installation flexibility, this connector supports three installation methods - with no routing of header/post or beam, a routed header/post, or a routed beam - adapting to job site conditions as they are. ZMAX galvanization delivers enhanced corrosion resistance for exterior framing and treated-wood applications, while the short dowel sizing aligns this connector precisely with glulam, PSL, LSL, LVL, and well-dried sawn lumber. Hardware is included, so crews can move directly from delivery to installation.

Key Features

• Center dowel placement in beam - ensures proper load transfer and alignment for a structurally sound connection at every install.
• Short dowel sized at 1/2 in. x 2 3/4 in. - correctly fits 3-1/8 in. glulam beams, 4x sawn lumber, and 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL without modification, reducing cut time and sizing errors on site.
• 12-gauge steel construction - provides the heavy-duty strength required for structural concealed connector applications in residential and commercial framing.
• ZMAX galvanization - offers extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanized coatings, making this connector appropriate for exterior environments and use with treated lumber where standard finishes fall short.
• Three versatile installation methods - no routing, routed header/post, or routed beam options give installers the flexibility to work with existing framing conditions rather than adjusting the structure to fit the connector.
• Compatible only with glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well-dried sawn lumber - precise material specifications help contractors avoid costly splitting or structural failures caused by cross-grain shrinkage from improperly dried wood.
• All required short pins and SDS screws included - eliminates separate fastener sourcing, keeping the installation process straightforward; screws require a hex-head driver.
• Part of a concealed connector system including the CPTZ and CBTZ - allows contractors to spec a coordinated, matching hidden connector solution across multiple connection points in a single project.

Why This Product

• Clean, concealed connections without sacrificing structural integrity - the CJTZ installs completely out of sight, delivering hidden joist connections that satisfy both aesthetic and load-bearing requirements in finished framing.
• Corrosion resistance built for demanding conditions - ZMAX galvanization provides extra protection over standard galvanized coatings, making this connector a dependable choice for exterior applications and framing with treated lumber where long-term durability matters.
• Flexible installation reduces job site complexity - three distinct installation approaches let contractors adapt to varying header, post, and beam configurations without re-engineering the framing plan, saving time and labor.
• Hardware-inclusive design simplifies procurement - short pins and all required SDS screws ship with the connector, so nothing is left to source separately before the crew can start work.

Specifications

• MPN: CJT3ZS
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Coating / Finish: ZMAX
• Gauge: 12
• Pin Length: 2-3/4 in.
• Pin Diameter: 1/2 in.
• Height 1: 5-9/16 in.
• Height 2: 4-7/16 in.
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Glulam beams (3-1/8 in. width)
• 4x sawn lumber (well dried)
• Composite lumber including PSL (3-1/2 in.-wide), LSL, and LVL
• Exterior framing and treated-wood construction where enhanced corrosion resistance is required
• Concealed joist-to-beam, joist-to-header, and joist-to-post connections

What's Included

• Short pins - 2-3/4 in. length x 1/2 in. diameter
• All required SDS screws

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three installation methods for the CJTZ concealed joist tie?

The CJTZ can be installed three ways: with no routing of the header/post or beam, with a routed header/post, or with a routed beam. This flexibility allows contractors to choose the method that best suits the framing conditions on their job site.

What lumber types are compatible with the CJT3ZS?

This connector is approved for use only in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well dried sawn lumber. The short dowel (1/2 in. x 2-3/4 in.) is specifically sized for 3-1/8 in. glulam beams, 4x sawn lumber, or 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL.

Why does the CJT3ZS feature ZMAX galvanization instead of standard galvanizing?

ZMAX galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanized coatings, making the CJT3ZS suitable for exterior applications and use with treated lumber where exposure to moisture or corrosive environments is a concern.

Does the CJT3ZS come with all necessary fasteners, and what tools are needed?

Yes - the CJT3ZS is supplied with all dowels and screws required for installation. The included screws require a hex-head driver to install properly.

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw or bolt holes may differ from picture. Please see the item description for specifications. Dowels aligned across the grain may cause splitting if the wood shrinks excessively; install only in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well dried lumber.