How to Identify Scrap Metal at Home

Sorted metal is graded faster and every part is paid at its own rate, while a mixed load is graded on what is actually in it. You can do most of the sorting with three things: a magnet, a file or some sandpaper, and your own hands to judge weight.

Step 1: the magnet

Use a reasonably strong magnet. A fridge magnet will do in a pinch.

• Sticks firmly: steel or iron. This is ferrous metal, the lowest-paid group. Magnetic stainless steel sticks too.
• Does not stick: non-ferrous metal, which pays more. Aluminium, copper, brass, bronze, lead, and 304 and 316 stainless.
• Sticks faintly, only at edges or welds: probably 304 stainless that has been bent or welded. That is normal.

Step 2: colour and weight

For everything the magnet left alone:

• Silver and light for its size: aluminium. It weighs about a third as much as steel of the same size.
• Silver, heavy and shiny, and it does not rust: stainless steel.
• Dull grey, very heavy, and soft enough to scratch with a fingernail: lead. Wash your hands after handling it.
• Reddish-pink or brown: copper.
• Yellow: brass.
• Reddish gold, darker than brass: bronze.

If the surface is painted or tarnished, file or sand a small spot until it shines. Our guide to telling copper, brass and bronze apart goes further.

Step 3: where it came from

• Window frames, alloy wheels, engine housings: usually aluminium.
• Water pipe and electrical wire: usually copper.
• Taps, valves and plumbing fittings: usually brass.
• Kitchen sinks and benches: usually 304 stainless.
• Beams, plate, roofing iron and whitegoods: steel.
• Roof flashing and old pipe: often lead.

Step 4: sort it

Put each metal in its own bag or bin, and take off what does not belong: steel screws, plastic handles, glass and rubber. Then send us a photo on WhatsApp and we will tell you the grades and today’s rate before you drive in.