The Simpson CJT3ZL (CJTZ) is a 12-gauge steel concealed joist tie with long pins, engineered to create strong, hidden connections between joists and beams without compromising the clean look of exposed timber construction. This connector can be installed three ways: with no routing of the header/post or beam, with a routed header/post, or with a routed beam - offering flexibility across a wide range of structural applications. Finished with Simpson's ZMAX galvanization, the CJT3ZL delivers superior corrosion resistance, making it well-suited for exterior and treated-wood environments. It is part of a complete concealed connector system that also includes the CPTZ and CBTZ connectors.

Key Features

• Concealed Installation: Can be installed with no routing of header/post or beam, a routed header/post, or a routed beam for a clean, hidden connection.
• Long Pin Design: Includes a long dowel measuring 1/2 in. x 4-3/4 in., specifically designed for use with 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths.
• Center Dowel in Beam: To provide maximum beam width performance, the dowel is centered in the beam.
• 12-Gauge Steel Construction: Heavy-duty 12-gauge steel provides structural integrity and durability.
• ZMAX Galvanization: Offers extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanized finishes - ideal for exterior and treated-wood applications.
• Part of a Complete System: Integrates with the CPTZ and CBTZ as part of Simpson's concealed connector system.
• Important Note on Dowel Alignment: Dowels aligned across the grain may cause splitting if wood shrinks excessively. Install only in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well-dried lumber.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): CJT3ZL
• Product Series: CJTZ
• Gauge: 12-Gauge Steel
• Coating / Finish: ZMAX Galvanized
• Pin Type: Long Pin
• Pin Dimensions: 1/2 in. diameter x 4-3/4 in. length
• Compatible Beam Size: 5-1/8 in. glulam beam, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

The Simpson CJT3ZL is approved for use with the following lumber types only:

• Glulam (Glued Laminated Lumber)
• PSL (Parallel Strand Lumber)
• LSL (Laminated Strand Lumber)
• LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber)
• Well-Dried Sawn Lumber (6x or greater width)
• Exterior and treated-wood applications (due to ZMAX corrosion-resistant coating)

Important: Do not install in green or wet lumber. Dowels aligned across the grain may cause splitting if the wood shrinks excessively.

What's Included

The CJT3ZL package comes complete with all hardware required for installation:

• Concealed joist tie connector body (12-gauge ZMAX galvanized steel)
• Long pins - 1/2 in. diameter x 4-3/4 in. length
• All required SDS screws

Installation Note: The CJTZ is supplied with all dowels and screws required. Screws require a hex-head driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lumber are compatible with the CJT3ZL?

The CJT3ZL should only be installed in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well dried sawn lumber. The long pin design - measuring 1/2 in. x 4-3/4 in. - is specifically suited for use with 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths.

What makes this a "concealed" joist tie, and how can it be installed?

The CJT3ZL is a concealed connector, meaning the hardware is hidden within the connection rather than being visible on the outside. It can be installed three ways: with no routing of the header/post or beam, with a routed header/post, or with a routed beam - offering flexibility for a variety of structural configurations while maintaining a clean appearance.

Does the CJT3ZL come with the necessary hardware for installation?

Yes. The CJT3ZL is supplied with all dowels and screws required for installation. It includes long pins measuring 4-3/4 in. in length and 1/2 in. in diameter, along with the required screws. Note that the screws require a hex-head driver for installation.

Why is ZMAX galvanization recommended for this connector?

ZMAX galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanized finishes, making the CJT3ZL well suited for exterior applications and use with treated wood, where exposure to moisture or corrosive preservatives could degrade a standard galvanized connector over time.