How to Recycle Scrap Metal in Oregon

Whether you're remodeling or just cleaning out the garage, if you end up with a pile of scrap metal -- don't throw it in the trash. Recycling is a perfect way to keep junk out of landfills and to reuse materials rather than mining new metal. If you have metal that can't be put into your curbside recycling bin, several companies in Oregon recycle metal. Some companies accept only certain metals, others charge a fee and some might even pay you for the metal, so its best to call a few places in your area to learn their policies.

• 1

  Clean your metal. Recyclers only want metal so you need to remove any plastic, insulating foam or debris on your metal pieces. Use water to remove any dirt and dry the metal thoroughly to prevent rust.

• 2

  Check with your curbside recycling company to see if they take scrap metal. Some companies won't take any scrap metal, but others will take small pieces of tin and aluminum. Depending on your recycler's policy, sort out what they will take and put it in your curbside bin.

• 3

  Look up a scrap metal recycling company in your area. For the Portland Metro area, the Metro (city government) website has a search menu to find companies within a small radius of your address (you can even choose companies that will come to your residence to pick up the metal). For the rest of the state, the State of Oregon website has a directory of scrap metal recyclers.

• 4

  Contact a few of the companies listed in your search results. Decide which one will work best for you. Box up your metal according to their directions. Depending on what company you choose, either take the metal into them or schedule a pick-up date from your residence.