What Common Metals Can Be Recycled?

David Garrison
Sep 22
2 min read

Updated: Sep 24

man standing near recycled metals. — What Common Metals Can Be Recycled?

Recycling metal isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also a smart way to turn old, unwanted materials into something useful again. At Advantage Waste in Dallas, Texas, we work every day with customers who bring in scrap metal from households, construction sites, and businesses. Many people are surprised to learn just how many types of metal can be recycled instead of ending up in a landfill.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common recyclable metals:

1. Aluminum

Aluminum is everywhere—from soda cans and food packaging to car parts and window frames. It’s one of the most commonly recycled metals because it’s lightweight, easy to process, and can be reused indefinitely without losing quality. Recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy required to make new aluminum from raw materials.

2. Steel

Steel is strong, versatile, and highly recyclable. You’ll find it in appliances, furniture, building beams, and everyday household items. Most of the steel in circulation today has already been recycled at least once. Because steel is magnetic, it’s also one of the easiest metals to separate at recycling facilities.

3. Copper

Copper is in high demand thanks to its excellent electrical conductivity. It’s used in wiring, plumbing pipes, roofing, and electronics. Recycling copper reduces the need for new mining and is very profitable compared to other metals. Even small amounts, like old wires or tubing, can add up quickly when you recycle.

4. Brass

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is often found in household fixtures, plumbing parts, and decorative items. Its bright, gold-like color makes it easy to recognize. While heavier than some other scrap metals, brass retains a high recycling value and is always accepted at DFW Recyclers.

5. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel contains iron, chromium, and sometimes nickel, which makes it resistant to rust and corrosion. It’s widely used in appliances, medical tools, automotive parts, and kitchenware. Since it’s durable and reusable, stainless steel is an excellent candidate for recycling.

6. Lead

Commonly found in car batteries and certain types of pipes, lead must be handled carefully because of its toxicity. Recycling lead ensures it doesn’t end up polluting the environment. At DFW Recyclers, we accept and process lead safely so it can be reused in manufacturing new products.

7. Other Metals

In addition to these everyday metals, recycling facilities like ours also accept:

Tin – from cans and food packaging
Zinc – used in coatings, die-cast parts, and construction materials
Electronic metals – components from computers, phones, and appliances

Why Recycle Metals?

Recycling metals reduces waste, conserves natural resources, and puts money back in your pocket. Whether you’re a homeowner cleaning out your garage, a contractor managing a job site, or a business looking for reliable scrap metal solutions, Advantage in Dallas is your trusted local partner.

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