The Simpson CJT5ZS CJTZ 12-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Concealed Joist Tie with Short Pins by Simpson is a heavy-duty hidden connector engineered to join joists to headers, posts, or beams with a clean, concealed finish. Built from 12-gauge steel with a ZMAX galvanized coating, this joist hanger delivers enhanced corrosion resistance for exterior framing and treated-wood assemblies. It offers three installation methods - with no routing, a routed header/post, or a routed beam - giving contractors flexible options across residential and commercial framing projects. The connector ships complete with all short pins and Strong-Drive SDS screws required for installation.

Key Features

• Center dowel placement in beam - ensures proper alignment and load distribution for a structurally sound hidden connection
• Short dowel sized at 1/2 in. x 2 3/4 in. - correctly matched for use with 3-1/8 in. glulam beams, 4x sawn lumber, or 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL, so you get the right fit without modification
• Compatible only with glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL and LVL), or well dried lumber - restricting use to stable materials reduces the risk of splitting caused by wood shrinkage across the grain
• Dowels aligned across the grain require care during installation - following proper guidelines prevents splitting if wood shrinks excessively, protecting the integrity of the connection over time
• 12-gauge steel construction - provides the structural strength needed for demanding joist-to-beam connections in both light and heavy framing applications
• ZMAX galvanization offers extra corrosion resistance - makes this connector a reliable choice for exterior applications and assemblies using pressure-treated lumber where standard coatings fall short
• Part of the CPTZ and CBTZ concealed connector system - integrates seamlessly with other components in the same product family for a fully coordinated hidden fastening solution
• Supplied complete with all short pins and required SDS screws - eliminates the need to source separate hardware, and a hex-head driver is all that is needed to complete installation

Why This Product

• Truly concealed connection with real installation flexibility - three installation methods (no routing, routed header/post, or routed beam) mean this hidden joist connector adapts to the job site rather than forcing the framer to adapt to it
• Built-in corrosion protection for harsh environments - the ZMAX galvanized finish goes beyond standard coatings to handle exterior exposure and treated-lumber contact, making this a dependable long-term choice for outdoor decks, pergolas, and similar structures
• Engineered for dimensional precision with engineered and sawn lumber - the short dowel dimensions are specifically sized for 3-1/8 in. glulam, 4x sawn lumber, and 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL, so there is no guesswork about compatibility
• Complete hardware included for immediate installation - arriving with all dowel pins and Strong-Drive SDS screws already in the package, this concealed beam connector lets crews get to work without delays from missing fasteners

Specifications

• MPN: CJT5ZS
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Series: CJTZ
• Gauge: 12
• Coating / Finish: ZMAX
• Height 1: 8-9/16 in.
• Height 2: 7-7/16 in.
• Country of Origin: United States
• Compatible Lumber Types: Glulam, PSL, LSL, LVL, or well dried lumber
• Short Dowel Dimensions: 1/2 in. diameter x 2-3/4 in. length
• Suitable Beam Widths: 3-1/8 in. glulam beam, 4x sawn lumber, or 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL

Approved Applications

• Concealed joist-to-header connections in residential and commercial framing
• Connections to glulam beams (3-1/8 in. width)
• Connections to 4x sawn lumber
• Connections to 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL (Parallel Strand Lumber)
• Exterior applications and treated-wood assemblies requiring enhanced corrosion resistance
• Use as part of the CPTZ and CBTZ concealed connector system

What's Included

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The CJTZ can be installed three ways: with no routing of header/post or beam, with a routed header/post, or with a routed beam. This flexibility allows the connector to work in a variety of framing situations while maintaining a concealed appearance.

What type of lumber is compatible with the CJT5ZS short pin version?

The CJT5ZS with short dowels (1/2 in. x 2-3/4 in.) is designed for use with 3-1/8 in. glulam beams, 4x sawn lumber, or 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL. It should only be installed in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL and LVL), or well dried lumber.

What fasteners are required, and are they included with the CJT5ZS?

The CJTZ is supplied with all dowels and screws required for installation. A hex-head driver is needed to install the included screws. No additional fasteners need to be purchased separately.

Why is ZMAX galvanization important for this connector?

ZMAX galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanized products, making the CJT5ZS suitable for exterior applications and assemblies involving treated wood where standard galvanization may not offer adequate protection.

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