SCRAP METAL RECYCLING FAQS
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT SCRAP METAL COLLECTION AND RECYCLING IN SOUTH WEST ENGLAND
While we’re out and about collecting scrap metal for recycling in Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire and Gloucestershire we are peppered with a lot of questions from customers. So we’ve put together this list of some of the questions asked most frequently by those from whom we buy scrap metal for top prices. We hope this helps but if you want to know more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and ask.
Q:
Can all metals be recycled?
A:
Most can, except for radioactive metals like plutonium and uranium. It’s unlikely you’ll have any radioactive material for collection, but there are toxic metals like lead and mercury which are found in some electronic equipment that is recyclable, but needs to be handled by specialised plants after collection. If you’re in any doubt about whether your scrap metal is recyclable, please get in touch with us and ask.
Q:
Do you collect old fridges and freezers for recycling?
A:
No. While we take all other white goods for recycling we can’t accept fridges or freezers because they contain hazardous components – notably the refrigerants like freon and other toxic chemicals used in the insulation. There are options for safely and responsibly disposing of fridges and freezers – contact your local council to find out about their bulky waste collection service or whether your local tip will accept fridges.
Q:
Why Recycle Scrap Metal – isn’t it Biodegradable?
A:
No – metal can’t be fully broken down by natural processes, so unless it is collected, classified, melted down and re-used it is simply filling up landfill sites. Metal recycling lessens the demand for new materials, preventing unnecessary mining, so it is the green option that reduces waste and saves the earth’s resources.
Q:
Are there different prices for different metals?
A:
Yes, there is no standard price for scrap metal. We’ll quote you a fair price based on the weight, the level of demand and the market price of the type of metal at the time.
Q:
Is there any official documentation needed for scrapping metal?
A:
You will need to have evidence of your identity to dispose of your scrap metal. This could be a UK photocard driving licence or a passport.
Q:
Is there a minimum amount of scrap metal you’ll accept?
A:
No – no amount is too large or too small – we collect it all. It does make sense though to wait until you have a few items for us to collect so as to make it more economical from your point of view and ours. If you’re having a major clear-out or have a large amount of industrial scrap metal to dispose of we will happily deal with it.
Q:
Can plumbers sell on scrap metal left from jobs?
A:
Yes, many do – as do other trades people, builders and handymen. We take things like copper and lead pipes, old water tanks, cast iron baths, stainless steel sinks and even shower heads. It’s good practice though for trades people to get the okay from their customer before selling on the scrap accumulated from a job.
Q:
What is recycled metal used for?
A:
Recycled metal is used for a variety of purposes, but most commonly it is made into new products for the construction industry, used in the building of roads and bridges for example. It also goes towards making components for the automotive and aircraft manufacturing industry, and that scrap metal could even end up as part of brand new furniture items.
If you have any further questions about our scrap metal recycling service don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01672 562 234.
Contact us
If you have any other questions about scrapping your vehicle, please don’t hesitate to get in touch
- 01672 562 234
- info@williamsmetalspewsey.co.uk
- Louisville, Little Salisbury, Pewsey SN9 5NB
Or reach us through our contact form