Paper and plastic are just two materials that the average consumer recycles on an everyday basis. Yet many people remain unaware that scrap metal can also be easily recycled, and that doing so can be worth a decent chunk of change. If you are curious about what metals can be conveniently recycled, keep reading below for three of the most common ones that can be taken to a local scrap yard.

Copper

Although you may not realize it, copper is likely all around you. Because of its conductive properties, virtually anything that contains wires has some amount of copper in it. Copper in more substantial amounts is usually found in the copper wires that are used in residential plumbing and electrical systems. If you have just finished a home remodeling project and have some copper wiring left over, don't hesitate to take it to your local scrap metal buyer so that it can be recycled. The price you receive for copper will likely depend on whether it is tubing, insulated wire, or flashing copper.

Steel

Steel is a very different metal from copper in many important respects. For one, it is a ferrous metal, meaning it contains iron and is thus magnetic. Like copper, however, steel is also sought after by scrap metal buyers because it can be completely recycled without compromising its structural integrity. In addition, it saves manufacturers a great deal of money since it does not require the time, energy, and resources necessary to extract iron ore and then transform it. Steel can be recycled in the form of appliances such as refrigerators and ovens — which usually utilize stainless steel — or as cars, trucks, and other vehicles, which are largely made with steel as well.

Aluminum

Of all the metal items that are recycled each year, aluminum cans are among the most common. Unlike steel, it is not a ferrous metal, and it does not rust. It is featured in a number of different products — everything from beverage cans to airplane parts — because it is lightweight and durable. Aluminum can be sold to a scrap metal recycling plant in other forms too: siding, radiators, transformers, diesel tanks, and more are among the most common items. If you have scrap aluminum laying around, it is more than worth it to locate your nearest scrap metal buyer and earn some extra cash while you're at it.

Contact a recycling service to learn more about scrap metal recylicing.