Share:

From aluminum to steel, there are many metals that scrap yards will pay you to recycle. But while this cash may be motivation enough to gather up your scrap metal, it’s also worth noting that these materials will continue to serve a valuable purpose by reducing the environmental impact of having to mine and refine new metals. To shed more light on these benefits, here are five common ways that old metal can be given new life.

What’s Made of Recycled Metal?

1. Canned Goods

scrap metalAluminum and steel are commonly recycled into food packaging products, such as those used for soda cans or canned vegetables. Compared to freshly-mined materials, it takes much less energy to process and refine these scrap metals into containers.   

2. Automobiles

A sizable portion of a new vehicle’s body is crafted from recycled steel. Impurities are quickly removed from used steel with the help of magnets, making it an ideal resource for automakers with high production demands. 

Aluminum is often used to create smaller components of the car, such as engine parts, piping, and wheels.

3. Roofing

In recent years, many homeowners have grown interested in the potential offered by metal roofing. This material is often made from recycled copper, steel, and zinc alloys. Apart from being recyclable, this type of roof can help improve the environment by reducing energy loss, and in turn, decreasing HVAC usage.  

4. Home Furnishings

If you have any metal furnishings in your home like lamps, tables, and chairs, there’s a good chance that they were made from recycled scrap. Many household appliances like microwaves and refrigerators use metal wires and parts made from recycled materials.

5. Pipes

Both copper and steel are commonly used to produce pipes and other plumbing fixtures. In addition to providing a sturdy construction that can last for years, these metals are also known for their ability to resist corrosion—a perfect attribute for materials that are constantly exposed to water.

 

If you want to put your scrap metal to good use, bring it to Holmes Iron & Metal in Salisbury, NC. Serving the community for more than four decades, this metal recycling center knows how to properly process many types of valuable materials—including aluminum, copper, steel, iron, and brass. Backed with state-of-the-art grading equipment, these professionals will also closely analyze materials to determine a fair purchase price.  To learn more about their hours, location, and other services—including affordable dumpster rental—visit this Rowan County scrapyard online. For questions about current rates or collection processes, call (704) 633-6119.

tracking