Galvanized steel offers more protection from rust, so this is usually used when the gusset plate is exposed to the elements.

The gusset plate is usually painted to match nearby steel and fixtures and to give it an extra layer of protection.

[2] Occasionally gusset plates are made from copper or aluminum, but only with small structures that do not require much support.

The copper and aluminum gusset plates also provide a more attractive finish for exposed structures.

Gusset plates provide an easy way to retrofit structures that can no longer safely support the applied loads.

Gusset plates are usually square or rectangular, but can be triangular or made into a customized shape to fit the joint.