Why Handymen, Plumbers, and Contractors Should Scrap Their Metal for Extra Cash

Posted: December 20, 2024

“I’m a self employed handyman. For years I just threw out all the faucets, copper and storm doors that I replaced. One year I decided to keep everything for a year then scrap it out to see what it was worth. Pisses me of when I think about what I tossed out.”

If you’re a plumber, electrician, or contractor, this scenario may sound familiar. Job sites are filled with different types of scrap metal left over from odd jobs—valuable materials like copper, aluminum, brass, and steel that could be turned into serious profit instead of being discarded. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with the leftover metal from your work, we recommend that scrapping is not only the smart but profitable thing to do. At Rockaway Recycling, we’re making it easy for professionals like you to turn what might seem like trash into extra cash.

Common Types of Scrap Metal Found on Job Sites

Whether replacing a faucet, installing new electrical wiring, or gutting a kitchen, there’s often valuable scrap metal left over at the end of the job. Many handymen, plumbers, electricians, and contractors don’t realize how much value they’re leaving behind. Here are some of the most common types of scrap metals found on job sites that could be worth far more than you think:

• Copper: If you’re working on plumbing or electrical systems, copper is probably one of the most valuable metals you will find. Old pipes, wires, and air conditioning units often contain copper, fetching top dollar at scrap yards like Rockaway Recycling.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is often found in window frames, doors, gutters, and HVAC components. Though not as valuable as copper, it still offers an excellent return for its weight.
• Steel: Heavy-duty doors, appliances, and old beams can all contain steel. Steel isn’t a non-ferrous metal but is still worth scrapping, especially in large quantities.
• Brass & Bronze: These metals are commonly found in plumbing fixtures like faucets and valves and decorative elements like railings or handles.
• Other Non-Ferrous Metals: Old wiring, electrical systems, and even batteries can be a source of other valuable non-ferrous metals, which scrap yards are more than happy to buy.

The Financial Benefits of Scrapping Metal Instead of Throwing It Away

You’ve already handled the material and done the heavy lifting—why not get paid for it? Scrapping can turn what you might have considered junk into real profit. Here are a few financial benefits to consider:

• Profit from What You’re Already Handling: Every time you pull out copper wiring, aluminum gutters, or metal pipes, you’re holding money! Keeping a separate bin or space in your truck for these materials can accumulate significant scrap worth good money at the yard.
• Impact of Copper and Aluminum Prices: Copper is particularly valuable in the scrap market, and its price tends to stay high. Even smaller quantities of copper can bring in significant profit. Aluminum, too, can be a consistent source of extra income when you bring it in bulk.

Tips for Plumbers and Contractors To Maximize Scrap Profits

Now that you know the value of the metals you handle and where to bring them, here are a few tips to maximize your scrapping profit:

• Start Collecting: Set up a designated spot in your truck or van to collect scrap metals from each job site. You’ll be surprised how quickly the materials add up when you’re not throwing them away.
• Sort and Separate Metals: Organizing your scrap by type can help you get the best price at the yard. For example, separating copper from aluminum and steel will ensure that you get the top rate for each material.
• Stay Informed on Prices: Prices for metals fluctuate, so be sure to check our website regularly for updates. Rockaway Recycling offers real-time pricing to help you know exactly what your haul is worth before you make the trip.

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Why Rockaway Recycling is the Best Place to Scrap

If you’re convinced to start scrapping, the next step is finding a suitable scrap yard to work with. That’s where Rockaway Recycling comes in. Here’s why you should choose us for your scrap metal recycling needs:

• Specialized Tiered Pricing for Plumbers and Electricians: We offer specialized tiered pricing to cater specifically to plumbers and electricians. This means you’ll receive even higher payouts for certain materials—particularly copper. This makes us the perfect choice for professionals who regularly handle high-value metals.
• Transparency: We believe in transparency regarding scrap prices. Our website features real-time pricing, so you always know exactly what you’ll be paid before you bring in your materials. This commitment to fairness and transparency sets us apart from other yards.
• Customer Experience: With 75-100 customers coming through our yard daily, we know how to handle busy foot traffic while providing personalized service. Whether it’s your first time scrapping or you’ve been doing it for years, we make the process easy, fast, and reliable.

If you’ve been throwing away scrap metal without realizing its value, now is the time to start cashing in. At Rockaway Recycling, we make it easy for handymen, plumbers, electricians, and contractors to turn their scrap into extra profit. Whether you’re bringing in a truckload of copper pipes or need a dumpster for a major demolition project, we’ve got you covered. Reach out below with any questions or material concerns you may have

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