Copper pipes and fittings top the list for household scrap value. That old boiler you replaced or leftover plumbing materials from renovations can fetch excellent prices. Copper consistently holds strong value due to its conductivity and durability in manufacturing.

Aluminium window frames and doors often get overlooked during home improvements. These bulky items might seem like a disposal headache, but they're actually quite valuable. The same goes for aluminium guttering and downpipes – don't let the builder cart them away for free.

Stainless steel appliances like old dishwashers, washing machines, and cookers contain valuable steel that dealers actively seek. Even damaged units that can't be repaired have worth in their metal content.

Everyday Items That Add Up

Your kitchen probably contains more scrap than you think. Brass taps and fittings from that recent update hold decent value, while cast iron cookware – even the rusty pieces you never use – can bring in reasonable money.

Car parts sitting in the garage shouldn't be forgotten. Old exhaust systems, brake discs, and engine components all have scrap value. Even that corroded car battery contains lead that dealers will purchase.

Electrical cables from DIY projects or old appliances contain copper wire inside. Strip away the plastic coating, and you'll find the valuable metal beneath. Computer towers and old electronics also contain various metals worth extracting.

Garden and Outdoor Finds

Don't overlook your outdoor spaces. Lead flashing from roof work, cast iron garden furniture, and old wrought iron gates all have value. Even damaged items that seem beyond repair can still fetch money for their metal content.

Aluminium ladders that have seen better days and steel garden tools past their prime shouldn't head straight to the tip. These items retain value in their raw materials.

Understanding Current Values

Scrap metal prices fluctuate based on global demand and market conditions. Copper typically commands the highest prices among common household metals, followed by brass and then aluminium.

Steel and iron, while lower in price per kilogram, often make up for it in volume.

Most reputable dealers provide current pricing and will weigh items in front of you.

It's worth calling around different yards to compare rates, as prices can vary between dealers.

Before You Sell

Clean items where possible – removing plastic components from copper pipes or steel from aluminium frames can increase value.

Separate different metals rather than mixing them together, as dealers prefer sorted materials.

Check that items are actually yours to sell, particularly if you're clearing out rental properties or inherited items.

Some materials, like lead, may have specific handling requirements.

The key to maximising returns lies in recognising that almost any metal item has potential value.

Rather than paying disposal fees at the tip, consider whether that old radiator, broken lawnmower, or pile of copper pipes could put money back in your pocket instead.