The Simpson CJT3ZL is a 12-gauge steel concealed joist tie designed to create strong, hidden joist-to-beam connections while preserving the clean appearance of exposed timber framing. Part of Simpson's concealed connector system - which also includes the CPTZ and CBTZ - this connector offers three installation methods: with no routing of the header, post, or beam; with a routed header or post; or with a routed beam, giving builders genuine flexibility across a wide range of structural configurations. The ZMAX galvanized finish provides extra corrosion resistance, making this connector a reliable choice for exterior applications and assemblies involving pressure-treated lumber.

Key Features

• Three installation methods - allows the connector to be used with no routing, a routed header/post, or a routed beam, so builders can adapt to the demands of each project without compromising structural integrity.
• Long pin design (1/2 in. x 4 -3/4 in.) - sized specifically for 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths, ensuring a proper, secure fit in the materials it is engineered for.
• Center dowel in beam - positions the connection at the center of the beam for balanced load transfer and optimal structural performance.
• 12-gauge steel construction - delivers the structural strength needed for demanding timber framing applications without adding unnecessary bulk to the concealed connection.
• ZMAX galvanization - offers extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanized coatings, making this connector well suited for exterior environments and contact with treated wood.
• Approved for glulam, PSL, LSL, LVL, and well-dried sawn lumber only - knowing the approved materials upfront helps avoid installation errors and ensures the connection performs as engineered.
• Comes complete with all required long pins and SDS screws - eliminates the need to source additional hardware separately, so installation can begin immediately; a hex-head driver is all that is needed on site.

Why This Product

• Truly concealed connection - the CJTZ connector is hidden within the beam and joist assembly, keeping metal hardware out of sight and allowing the natural beauty of exposed timber framing to remain the focal point of the structure.
• Versatile installation for real job-site conditions - the ability to install with or without routing of the header, post, or beam means this connector fits a wider variety of framing situations than a single-method connector, reducing the need for costly field modifications.
• Built-in corrosion protection for demanding environments - ZMAX galvanization goes beyond standard coatings to protect the connector in exterior settings and assemblies using pressure-treated lumber, supporting long-term performance where moisture and chemical exposure are concerns.
• Part of a complete concealed connector system - because the CJT3ZL is designed to work alongside the CPTZ post cap and CBTZ beam connector, builders can maintain a consistent concealed aesthetic and compatible hardware throughout an entire timber frame project.

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
• Height 1: 5-9/16 in.
• Height 2: 4-7/16 in.
• 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.