Metal is all around us in so many of the items we use every day – from aluminum foil, to clothes hangers, to that old washing machine. Sadly, much of it gets discarded and thrown in a landfill rather than reclaimed and put to new use. And in most cases, throwing away metal is throwing away money!
Bay Beach Recycling would like to change that by helping people understand what can be recycled and how to go about it. And we pay you for most items you bring in!
What types of metal does BBR take?
We take all types of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metal is iron-based and includes steel, cast iron and sheet iron. Non-ferrous metals are non-magnetic, non-iron-based metals like aluminum, brass, copper, stainless steel, bronze and titanium. Non-ferrous metals are more valuable than ferrous and will bring you more money at recycling. Call (920) 371-1593 or stop in anytime and we can help you identify what type of metal you have and whether or not it can be recycled. Also, our Services page lists the most common items that contain recyclable metals.
How can I tell what type of metal I have?
The easiest way to identify what type of metal you have is to use a magnet. If the magnet sticks to your metal, it is ferrous, such as steel or iron. If the magnet doesn’t stick, you have a non-ferrous metal, such as copper, aluminum, brass, stainless steel or bronze. The color, texture, weight etc. will help you narrow it down from there. Call (920) 371-1593 or stop in anytime and we can help you identify what type of metal you have and whether or not it can be recycled.
How can I find out how much my metals are worth?
The value of recycled metal fluctuates due to market forces. The best way to determine the payout you’ll receive from BBR is to call ahead of time. Generally, non-ferrous metals (copper, aluminum, brass, etc.) are more valuable than ferrous metals (steel, iron) and will earn you more money. To know exactly what we’ll pay, however, it is best to stop in.
Must I have A LOT of metal to bring it to Bay Beach Recycling?
We will accept any amount of metal you have, but your payout is determined by weight. If you only have a few small pieces, your payout will be little. It is best to store your metal until you have a large enough amount to be worth the effort.
What types of metal items REQUIRE recycling or other proper disposal?
Refrigerators and freezers, dehumidifiers and air-conditioning units contain refrigerants, oils, and other compounds that, by federal law, must be removed and recovered. Many facilities charge a fee to properly dispose of these items, but Bay Beach Recycling will accept them at no charge.
Electronics like computers, computer monitors and printers contain harmful materials including lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, other heavy metals and chemicals. The law prohibits these items from entering the landfill and requires that they be recycled or disposed of properly by a hazardous waste facility. Many facilities charge a fee for proper disposal, but Bay Beach Recycling also accepts these at no charge.
Many other items contain hazardous materials and require proper disposal. While Bay Beach Recycling does not accept these items (see below), both the Waste Transfer Station and the Hazardous Material Recovery facility may accept them for a small fee from Brown County residents.
What items do you NOT accept?
Bay Beach Recycling does not accept the items below. Contact the Hazardous Material Recovery facility for guidance disposing of these items.
- Any type of alkaline, rechargeable and lithium batteries
- Compressed gas cylinders
- Televisions
- Non-metallic items, such as concrete, wood, asphalt, tires, paper and plastics, yard debris, etc.