A building coming down is one of the largest single sources of recyclable metal a yard can get. Knowing what is in a building, and when it will be accessible, helps a scrap company decide which projects to chase.
What is in a typical building
- Structural steel: beams, columns, joists and decking, especially in industrial and mid-century commercial buildings.
- Copper: wiring, plumbing and motors, mostly removed during strip-out.
- Aluminum: window frames, siding, ductwork and storefronts.
- Other metals: stainless steel, brass, and heavy equipment and machinery in industrial plants.
Why timing matters
Much of the high-value metal comes out during abatement and interior strip-out, before the main teardown. Once the building has been cleared, the best material may already be gone. Hearing about a project early gives you a chance to be part of that conversation.
Industrial versus commercial versus residential
Large industrial buildings and plants usually carry the most metal. Offices and retail have less structural steel but plenty of ductwork, wiring and fixtures. Houses and small residential buildings are a different category with a much lower volume of metal.
Working with the demolition contractor
Most scrap arrangements run through the demolition contractor, so the relationship matters. Recyclers who know the contractor's schedule and the project timeline can offer pickup and service that fits the job.
Finding the right projects
Look for buildings of 50,000 square feet or more, industrial and plant sites, and projects with a clear schedule. Researched demolition leads put those details, and the contacts, in one report.
See what a researched demolition lead looks like
One page: address, size, stage and the people to call.
View the sample report Request access