Plumbers deal with valuable metals on every job. Copper pipe, brass fittings, cylinders, and radiators all carry strong resale value. When these materials are collected and sorted, they turn into a steady source of income.
Why plumbers should save their scrap
- You handle high-value metals every day.
- Sorted materials earn stronger rates.
- You reduce waste on-site.
- You lower disposal costs.
- You keep your van and workshop tidy.
Most plumbers already have scrap building up in buckets or bags. Turning that into cash is simple once you understand what to keep and how to bring it in.
Key plumbing metals worth saving
Copper pipe
- Copper is one of the highest-paying metals.
- Plumbers often remove old pipework during repairs or upgrades.
- Removing solder, fittings, and paint increases the value of the load.
Brass fittings
- Brass comes from taps, valves, stopcocks, compression fittings, and plumbing hardware.
- It is heavy, clean, and easy to store.
- A small box of brass can be worth more than you expect.
Copper cylinders
- Older houses often still use large copper hot-water cylinders.
- These hold strong value, especially when insulation is removed.
- Keep cylinders separate from other metals for faster grading.
Lead
- Lead still appears in old pipes and roofing repairs.
- It is dense and valuable in small amounts.
- Keep it separate and dry.
Aluminium radiators
- Modern installations often use aluminium radiators.
- They are light but build value in bulk.
- Removing steel brackets increases grading accuracy.
How to prepare your scrap for sale
Simple steps increase your return:
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Keep copper, brass, aluminium, and steel in separate containers.
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Cut away fittings and mixed materials where possible.
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Keep everything clean and dry.
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Avoid mixing plastic, insulation, or rubber with metal.
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Bring cylinders whole if you cannot strip them.
Better sorting means better grading and faster payment.
How Wilton Recycling supports plumbers
Wilton Recycling offers a streamlined process for trade customers.
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Quick drop-off at any Wilton Scrap Metal yard.
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Clear and honest grading on-site.
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Competitive rates based on current market values.
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Weighbridges for large loads.
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Platform scales for small loads.
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Collection service available for regular plumbing firms.
You get a simple, fast process with transparent pricing.
What plumbers can bring to our yards
We accept:
- Copper pipe
- Brass fittings
- Copper cylinders
- Lead
- Aluminium radiators
- Stainless steel sinks
- Boiler parts
- Tanks
- Mixed metal from rip-outs
If you carry out bathroom upgrades, heating system replacements, or pipe repairs, you likely have material ready to recycle right now.
Turn your plumbing scrap into value
Wilton Recycling works with plumbers across the region to help turn everyday scrap into revenue. Whether you have a small bucket of fittings or a full van load, you can drop it at your nearest yard or arrange a collection.
