Whether you're remodeling your home or adding an addition to the house, you'll likely have building materials left over. Scrap metal, including aluminum, copper, and brass, is common to have around after a renovation or remodeling project. Rather than tossing these materials, it's more environmentally sound to recycle them. Learn more about the benefits of recycling scrap metal below.

What Types of Metals Can Be Recycled?

Many building materials are accepted at recycling centers, while others need to be disposed of at a different facility. Common recyclable metals include steel, brass, aluminum, iron, and copper. Copper, in particular, is incredibly valuable, so many recycling centers will pay top dollar for copper scraps.

A recycling center may not accept radioactive metals such as plutonium and uranium. Toxic metals, including mercury and lead, aren't recyclable either, so if you have these materials, make sure to take them to a specialized facility for proper disposal.

Why Is Recycling Scrap Metal Beneficial?

Scrap metal that is tossed often ends up in a landfill. Landfills are quickly filling up across the U.S., making it more difficult to safely toss trash without polluting the environment. When you recycle scrap metal, you're giving those materials a new life. Recycled metal can be used to create parts for the automotive manufacturing industry, the aerospace industry, food packaging, shipping containers, home materials such as door tracks or window frames, and even bridges and roads.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of recycling scrap metal is that it reduces the need for ore mining. This action severely pollutes the surrounding air, soil, and water, since the chemicals used when mining often contaminate nearby sources. Mining can also destroy the surrounding wildlife, as their habitat will be disrupted by pollution, machines, and chemicals.

How Can I Safely Recycle Scrap Metal?

If you'll be renovating or working on a new build, it's wise to find a recycling center nearby. These centers offer cash for scrap metal, and many accept common materials like steel and iron. Simply gather up the scraps and drop them off at the recycling center for quick cash.

Additionally, if you're purchasing new appliances, such as a stove, dishwasher, or radiator, or if you need to get rid of an electric motor, these recycling centers can also accept those items.

To make a powerful and positive impact on the environment, recycle your scrap metal at Holmes Iron & Metal Inc. This recycling center serves residents throughout North Carolina and accepts brass, copper, aluminum, and other metals. They also recycle radiators and electric motors. Call (704) 633-6119 to ask about your scrap metal and visit them online to browse their services.