Scrap metal recycling is a great way to turn waste into cash while helping towards global sustainability goals, but not all metals are worth the same. Some metals hold more value due to demand, rarity and the cost of refining them.
If you’re an electrician, contractor or tradesperson dealing with non-ferrous metals, knowing which metals are most valuable can help you maximise your profits. In this guide, we will break down the most valuable types of scrap metals and why they matter.
What Makes a Metal Valuable?
Several factors come into play to determine how much a metal is worth at scrapyards.
- Rarity: Metals that are harder to find tend to be worth more.
- Recyclability: Metals that can be endlessly recycled without losing their quality such as copper and aluminium hold high value.
- Market Demand: Prices fluctuate based on industrial needs. Metals such as copper are always in demand, making them hold their value better.
Now, let’s explore the most valuable scrap metals you should look out for in your waste.
Copper – The King of Scrap Metal
Several factors come into play to determine how Copper is one of the most sought-after metals due to its excellent conductivity and resistance to corrosion. It’s widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing and industrial machinery. The world would not be able to function like it does today without copper!
Where to Find It:
- Electrical cables and wiring
- Plumbing pipes
- Motors and transformers
- Copper tanks and roofing sheets
Stripping insulation from copper wires will give you a higher price. This way it will be sold as “bright copper wire” rather than the cable types. However, this takes time so selling your cables to scrapyards like Event Sparks Cable Recycling can be a more efficient method.
Brass – A Highly Sought-After Alloy
rass is an alloy of copper and zinc, making it durable and corrosion-resistant. This helps it keep a high value. It’s often found in decorative fittings, plumbing and music instruments.
Where to Find It:
- Door handles and locks
- Plumbing fittings and taps
- Radiators
- Ammunition casings
Separate your clean bras from contaminated pieces in order to get the best prices at the general scrapyard. Alternatively using Event Sparks Cable Recycling means you save time and get the best price for your metal. This is due to us sorting your scrap into the different types before weighing and paying.
Aluminium – Lightweight but Profitable
Aluminium is abundant but costly to extract from ore. It’s widely used in construction, transportation as well as packaging.
Where to Find It:
- Window frames and doors
- Car parts
- Beverage cans
- Kitchenware and foil
Clean aluminium (free from screws or paint) fetches a higher price. This means to maximize profits you should separate it from steel and other metals. Again, you could use a service like ours to save time and keep your profits high.
Lead – Heavy Metal with a High Value
Despite being phased out in many products due to its toxicity, lead is still valuable for recycling. It’s widely used in batteries and protective shielding.
Where to Find It:
- Car batteries
- Roofing materials
- Lead piping (mainly on older buildings)
- Fishing weights
Scrap yards often pay well for lead-acid batteries, but they must be disposed of correctly due to environmental risks.
Stainless Steel – Strong and Versatile
Stainless steel contains valuable elements like chromium and nickel, making it resistant to rust and widely used in various industries.
Where to Find It:
- Kitchen appliances
- Medical equipment
- Automotive parts
- Industrial machinery
Stainless steel with high nickel content (300-series) is worth more than lower grades.
Zinc – Key to Galvanization
Zinc is commonly used to coat steel (galvanization) and is a key component in alloys like brass.
Where to Find It:
- Roofing sheets
- Car body parts
- Old galvanized pipes
- Die-cast components
Scrap yards usually offer better rates for clean zinc (without coatings or rust).
The Role of Scrap Metal Recycling in Sustainability
Recycling metals reduces the need for mining, reduces energy use and helps protect the environment. Every ton of metal means fewer emissions and less waste in landfills.
If you’re an electrician or tradesperson, handling non-ferrous metal waste, recycling with a trusted scrap yard ensures your materials are repurposed sustainably – while putting more money in your pocket. It’s a win-win!
Get the Best Prices for Your Scrap Metal
At Event Sparks Cable Recycling, we specialise in non-ferrous metal recycling, offering competitive prices and hassle-free recycling. We work with electricians, contractors and businesses to help them turn scrap into profit.
Get in contact today to learn more!
