Many metals attract magnets, but not all of them are magnetic. Ferrous items stick to magnets, while nonferrous materials do not. For this reason, you can use magnets before visiting a metal recycling facility to predict the type of value your product has. Use the guide below to understand your findings.

Magnetic: Ferrous Metals

Ferrous metals attract magnets because of their iron content. Strong and durable, they’re often present in construction materials and auto parts. They’re highly common and vulnerable to rust, so their value is often lower than that of nonferrous varieties.

Steel, alloy steel, and cast iron are a few common types of this metal. Wrought iron, often found in fences and railings, is the purest ferrous metal since it contains very little added carbon. For this reason, wrought iron is one of the few materials resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Keep in mind that existing rust doesn’t devalue an item you take to a metal recycling facility since the material will be melted down or crushed.

Nonmagnetic: Nonferrous Metals

Magnets don’t stick to nonferrous items because they don’t contain iron. Often used in gutters, pipes, roofing, wiring, and electronics, nonferrous metals are typically rust- and corrosion-resistant. They’re also malleable and less likely to break while being repurposed.

Copper is a valuable nonferrous metal that offers high conductivity for electrical and heating applications. Known for its distinct warm color, it’s highly sought after for wiring and roofing. It’s also used to make brass and zinc, which can be used for other applications, including rust-resistant protective coatings.

Lightweight and soft, aluminum is found in everything from gutters to food cans. Although it doesn’t come with a high price tag, recycling it reduces waste and mining needs.

Lead and tin are other soft, malleable metals. Lead is heavy and highly resistant to corrosion, so it’s the more valuable of the two. Tin is often found in solders and bearings for industrial applications. Since lead exposure can be harmful to health, wear gloves and follow other safety guidelines when you're handling it.

For metal recycling in Monroe County, NY, trust Metalico Rochester. With three locations, this scrapyard makes the scrapping process easy and efficient. They work with a range of ferrous and nonferrous materials and offer fair pricing for every product. Call (585) 436-0713 to discuss your needs, or visit their website to learn more about the items they accept.