If you work in the construction industry or are always eager to earn cash, you may know you can get paid for recycling metal. But did you know the amounts you receive can vary from month to month based on a metal’s qualities? If you’re wondering what influences metal recycling prices so you can look out for the best deal, consider the following guide.

3 Conditions That Affect Metal Recycling Prices

1. Metal Type

Like jewels, natural stones, and minerals, various metals are worth different amounts based on the difficulty of finding and mining them. For example, while stainless steel and aluminum are on the less-expensive end of the spectrum, brass is more costly, and copper is one of the priciest. There are also variations inside each metal category — #1 copper is clean and unaltered, therefore it’s worth more than insulated or soldered #2 copper.

2. Supply & Demand

It drives the economy as a whole, so the concept of supply and demand also affects metal prices. Essentially, the more of a product that’s available, the cheaper it will be because sellers are eager to unload it. Also, the higher the demand among the public for a certain type of metal, the more costly it will be to purchase — and the more profitable it will be for you to sell it to a metal recycling center.

3. Item Quality

Yet another factor that influences a scrap metal’s price is its condition. Virgin metals are items that have just been mined — in other words, they’ve yet to be worn down or adulterated by use, recycling, or processing. These untainted materials are more expensive than previously recycled, treated, or deteriorated metals. As virgin metal prices rise due to supply, demand, and production costs, scrap metal also becomes more expensive. Once virgin metal becomes more affordable, scrap metal becomes less desirable, causing prices to drop.

If you have metal to sell, stop by Roadrunner Recycling in San Marcos, TX. They offer cash for scrap, so you can make money and help the environment by recycling. If you have a junk car, they’ll even come by your property to pick it up. For more information on their services, visit their website. Call (512) 353-4511 to ask about current metal recycling prices.