Which term describes the component used to connect truss intersections and strengthen the assembly of roof or floor components?

• A. Hollow-core door
• B. Joists
• C. Masonry
• D. Gusset Plate

Answer: (D)

In roof and floor truss systems, the component that ties the members at their intersections and strengthens the joint is a gusset plate. This plate sits at the joints where rafters, web members, and ties come together, providing structural continuity and helping to transfer loads evenly across the connected members. It is typically a metal plate (often steel) fastened with nails or bolts, which resists shear, tension, and compression at the joint. Hollow-core doors, joists, and masonry serve different roles—doors are not part of truss connections, joists are the members themselves, and masonry is a wall material—so they don’t fulfill the function of connecting and reinforcing truss intersections.