OCT 31, 2025
Many people have a lot of metal items taking up space in their storage spaces because they aren’t sure if they’re recyclable or how to start recycling them. It’s understandable because scrap metal buyers do not just accept every type of metal in any condition.
Here at RCM Recycling, we know the struggle most people go through when they’re getting started with scrap metal recycling. We’ve come out with this guide to help everyone who’s new to recycling scrap metal. After reading this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to identify valuable metals.
The easiest way to determine whether your scrap metal is valuable is with a simple magnet. This is one of the strategies scrap metal buyers use to identify metals that have more value. Ferrous metals, such as iron and steel, are magnetic. These metals are strong and widely used but tend to be worth less because they’re more common. Non-ferrous metals, on the other hand, are non-magnetic and typically fetch higher prices. These include copper, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, and bronze. So, if your magnet doesn’t stick, you might have a valuable piece of scrap on your hands.
Copper is one of the most sought-after metals in the recycling industry. It’s easy to spot by its reddish-orange color and is commonly found in wiring, plumbing pipes, and electrical components. Clean copper usually brings in a higher price. Stripping the insulation from copper wires before bringing them to the scrapyard can increase their value. Also, keep in mind that not all copper is valued equally. There are different grades, and the cleaner and purer your copper, the higher the payout.
You’ll find aluminum everywhere, from soda cans and window frames to car parts and old siding. While it doesn’t bring as much per pound as copper, aluminum is lightweight and abundant, so collecting it in bulk can still yield a solid return. Clean aluminum that’s free from paint or other coatings is especially valuable, so a little effort cleaning it up before you sell can pay off.
Brass often appears in fixtures like doorknobs, faucets, and decorative hardware. It’s heavy and has a bright yellow-gold color, making it easy to identify. Because brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, it’s more valuable than aluminum or steel. Stainless steel, which has a silvery shine and resists rust, is also a good find. You’ll see it in appliances, sinks, and kitchenware. While it’s less valuable than brass or copper, it’s worth saving when you have a larger quantity.
We hope this article has helped you distinguish between recyclable and non-recyclable metals. What might look like junk could actually be valuable scrap metal sitting in your home, waiting to be recycled. You can now get started with your scrap metal recycling journey and earn some cash while making the planet a better place to live. And if you have any questions about recycling scrap metal, get in touch with the specialists at RCM Recycling.
Do you have metals to recycle? Looking for a dependable scrap metal company? If so, RCM Recycling has got you covered. We accept a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous metals and offer fair prices for your scrap metal. Moreover, we provide excellent customer service and promote responsible scrap metal recycling practices in our community. Contact us today to learn more about how we can remove and recycle your scrap metal.
