Scrap Metal Prices: Which Metal is Worth the Most?
If you’ve got old pipes, cables, appliances or leftover building materials sitting around, you might be surprised at just how much they’re worth. Scrap metal prices in the UK fluctuate regularly based on global supply and demand, but some metals consistently fetch far higher prices than others. At West Midlands Metals, we want to help you understand what you’ve got and how to get the best return for it.
Copper – The King of Scrap Metal
When it comes to value, copper sits at the top of the scrap metal league table. In March 2026, dry bright copper wire is fetching around £8.00 per kg, making it one of the most lucrative materials you can bring to our scrap yard. Heavy copper comes in close behind at roughly £7.50 per kg, while copper wire (No. 2 grade) is valued at around £7.30 per kg. Copper is in constant demand thanks to its use in electrical wiring, plumbing, and electronics manufacturing. If you’ve got old copper pipes, boiler parts, or stripped electrical cable, hold on to it – it’s worth good money.
Brass – A Strong Runner-Up
Brass is another highly valuable non-ferrous metal. Mixed brass is currently valued at around £3.60 per kg, with heavy brass reaching up to £3.80 per kg. Brass fittings, taps, valves, and plumbing parts are common sources. It’s denser than aluminium and significantly more valuable, so it’s always worth sorting your brass from your other metals before visiting us.
Gunmetal and Specialist Alloys
Gunmetal – an alloy typically made from copper, tin, and zinc – currently trades at around £5.40 per kg, sitting between brass and copper in terms of value. It’s commonly found in marine fittings, valves, and industrial components. If you’re unsure whether what you have is gunmetal or brass, our team at West Midlands Metals can help you identify it.
Aluminium – Lightweight but Valuable
Aluminium may not command the same price as copper, but it’s still well worth recycling. Aluminium cans are currently fetching around £1.34 per kg, with pure aluminium cuttings at £1.30 per kg and clean cast aluminium at the same rate. Alloy wheels, window frames, and kitchen items are popular sources. Given how lightweight aluminium is, you’ll want to bring a decent quantity to make the trip worthwhile.
Lead
Lead is a dense, heavy metal that turns up in roofing, old plumbing, and batteries. It’s a solid earner per kg and regularly recycled at scrap yards across the West Midlands. Always handle lead carefully and check local regulations, particularly around lead flashing from roofing work.
Steel and Iron – The Backbone of Scrap
While ferrous metals like steel and iron are far less valuable per kg than copper or brass, they make up the bulk of scrap metal volumes. Old cars, machinery, and structural steel are regularly recycled. If you have large quantities, the weight alone can add up to a worthwhile payout.
At West Midlands Metals, we offer competitive prices on all grades of scrap metal across the West Midlands. Whether you’re a trade professional clearing a site or a homeowner with a few old appliances, we’ll give you a fair and transparent price. Get in touch with our team today to find out what your scrap is worth.
