Steel intake gasket

I would not use it at all. Because I'd rather not have to pull it apart when it is found to be leaking. You've got 3 leak paths there, air, oil, and water. Assuming this is a 318 or 340 motor, get some FelPro 1213S3 and do the job just once.
You are correct... and guess what I’m doing now...? Replace the gasket....