JAN 31, 2026
Scrap metal recycling is a worthwhile endeavor that can bring in extra money, keep scrap metal out of the landfills, and conserve resources. However, many people do not realize that their homes are filled with valuable scrap metal that can be recycled. The misconceptions floating around about scrap metals make things even worse, derailing the efforts and causing reusable materials to be thrown away unnecessarily.
At RCM Recycling, we believe education is key to powering a greener and sustainable future. Today, we’ll look at the common scrap metals people don’t realize have value. If you’re not sure whether the scrap metals lying around your home can be recycled, you’ve come to the right place.
Copper is one of the most valuable and commonly recycled metals, yet many homeowners don’t realize how much of it they already have. Old electrical wiring, extension cords, and cables contain copper that scrap yards gladly accept. Plumbing pipes, fittings, and even old faucets may also contain copper or brass. Because copper conducts electricity efficiently and resists corrosion, it maintains high demand in the recycling market.
Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and endlessly recyclable, making it a popular metal at scrap yards. Beyond soda cans, aluminum can be found in window frames, patio furniture, gutters, siding, ladders, and baking trays. Even broken lawn chairs or damaged screen doors often contain recyclable aluminum that many people mistakenly toss in the trash.
Brass is frequently overlooked because it resembles gold or copper and is often mistaken for something else. Items such as door handles, keys, plumbing valves, hose nozzles, lamp bases, and decorative fixtures are often made from brass. Since brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, it carries a higher value than many other metals and is easy to recycle. If you’ve recently renovated your home, you may have old faucets, fittings, or hardware sitting in a box or headed for the trash. Instead of discarding these items, consider taking them to a local scrap yard, where clean brass can fetch a decent return and help reduce unnecessary waste.
Old appliances and household items often contain stainless steel, which has consistent scrap value. Sinks, cookware, refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and even some tools are made from stainless steel components. While these items may seem bulky or outdated, scrap yards accept them because stainless steel can be recycled repeatedly without losing quality.
Broken electronics are a goldmine of recyclable metals. Computers, printers, phones, keyboards, and circuit boards contain copper, aluminum, steel, and small amounts of precious metals. While you may not see the value immediately, electronics recycling is a growing industry, and many scrap yards or specialized recyclers pay for e-waste. Be sure to erase all personal data and remove batteries before taking your electronics to scrap metal buyers in Atlanta, GA.
If you have a garage or shed, you may be storing valuable scrap metal without realizing it. Old car batteries, brake rotors, radiators, exhaust components, and engine parts are commonly accepted by scrap yards. Even lawn equipment like lawnmowers, grills, and bicycles often contains a mix of recyclable metals.
If you’re in search of trusted scrap metal buyers, RCM Recycling is the company to choose. We’re a renowned recycling company committed to making every scrapping experience hassle-free and rewarding. We make it easy for everyone, from construction companies looking for a convenient way to get rid of construction waste to homeowners decluttering their spaces. When you choose us, you can expect We look forward to helping you recycle!
