Scrap metal can be a surprisingly profitable resource, especially when you know where to look around your home. Whether you’re decluttering, renovating, or just cleaning out old items, many household metals can fetch a good price at a scrap yard. From old appliances to plumbing and cookware, knowing what to collect can turn your junk into cash.
For all your scrap metal needs, NRI Metal Recycling serves the greater Minneapolis, Minnesota area, helping you maximize the value of your metals.
1. Copper
Copper is a top choice for seasoned scrappers due to its high market value. Commonly found in older electrical appliances, wiring, plumbing systems, and some cookware, copper’s value continues to rise with global demand. Remember, the purity and condition of copper can significantly affect your payout.
2. Brass
Brass, known for its golden sheen and resistance to rust, is another profitable metal. Look for it in door handles, lighting fixtures, and decorative items. Vintage brass items like bed frames or ornamental pieces may also fetch higher scrap yard prices.
3. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel contains about 10% chromium, making it rust-resistant and more valuable than standard iron-based metals. You’ll find it in kitchen sinks, appliances, cookware, and lighting fixtures. Cleaning your stainless steel before selling can increase its value.
4. Tin
Tin is often used as a protective layer over other metals. Look for tin in old cans, tin-coated copper wiring, and cookware like pie dishes or baking pans. Though less common, it’s still a metal worth recycling.
5. Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and highly versatile. Beyond soda cans, it’s found in old electronics, broken bicycle frames, fencing, and cookware. Its abundance makes it one of the easiest metals to collect for quick cash.
6. Cast Iron
Cast iron may not be the highest-priced metal, but its weight makes it valuable. You can find it in skillets, griddles, old bathtubs, radiators, and boilers. While heavy, hauling cast iron can yield a worthwhile return.
Tips to Maximize Scrap Metal Value
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Separate Metals: Mixing metals can reduce your payout. Organize metals by type before taking them to the scrap yard.
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Stay Updated on Prices: Scrap metal values fluctuate with market demand and trends. Check local yard prices to ensure you’re getting the best rate.
Turn Scrap Into Cash
Before tossing out old appliances or furniture, check for valuable metals inside. From copper wiring to stainless steel appliances and brass fixtures, you could be sitting on a small fortune. Gather your scrap, separate it, and take it to NRI Metal Recycling in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area to turn it into cash.
