Scrap Metal and How to Handle and Dispose of it

by Kevin Smith Author

One question that comes up a lot is to handle scrap metal that inevitably accumulates during a home improvement project or when cleaning out a barn, garage or attic. If you are looking for scrap metal removal services in Montcalm, MI, follow this advice to ensure your scrap metal can be quickly processed once you deliver it and that you can maximize what you get for it.

Ask about Restrictions

Most recycling centers or salvage yards will take the metals and metal components you deliver as is; there are, however, some restrictions. These can include prohibitions on substances like mercury or lead or metal that has been immersed in caustic chemicals and has been untreated. Many cannot extract metals from electrical components, meaning if you want to get credit for it, you have to extract it yourself. Call, though, before you do that. Many scrap yards only pay based on weight unless you have metal that is of specific value.

Separate Recyclables

Some items require special handling. These include car batteries, catalytic converters, some motor parts and metals that contain lead. These should be pulled aside for separate processing; be aware that you may be told they cannot handle certain items, meaning you are responsible for safe and legal disposal.

Identify and Separate Non-Ferrous Metal

Ferrous metals and alloys contain Iron. How you tell if a metal is ferrous can get tricky. The easiest way is to perform a magnet test. Anything that sticks is ferrous if it does not, it is non-ferrous. Separating the two can speed up processing. It also, in some cases, can ensure you get the most for the metal you are submitting.

Copper, Iron, Stainless Steel and Aluminum are great examples of non-ferrous metals. Alloys with iron, lead, and tin is great examples of ferrous metals. Once you have those separated, you can further refine your metal into specific types of metal. Do this if your salvage yard or recycling center pays more for certain types of metal (some just pay based on weight.) Separating out metals also ensures they are recycled correctly.

You also should separate clean and dirty metals (rust, mud, painted metals) versus “naked” metals (as is.) Also, shop around, scrap metal removal services in Montcalm, MI, will generally all offer and cost the same, but there are some variations in pricing, based on the organization and what it specializes in. If you have questions, ask; most salvage yard and recycle center staff are more than happy to help you through the process.