Scrap Management for Construction Companies: Your Guide to Doing It Right
Every construction project—whether it’s a new build, a remodel, or a demolition—generates scrap. And while it’s easy to think of that pile of metal as a byproduct or waste, at Fair Salvage, we know better: construction scrap has real value when handled the right way.
From steel banding to copper wiring and leftover plumbing fixtures, construction materials can generate consistent revenue if properly sorted, stored, and recycled. That’s where scrap management comes in.
In this guide, we’ll share best practices for managing jobsite scrap, highlight the benefits of working with a specialized partner, and walk you through how Fair Salvage helps contractors across Mid-Michigan maximize their scrap’s value.
Common Scrap Materials Found on Construction Sites
According to Jon Fair, President of Fair Salvage Company:
“For construction sites, we see steel banding, I-beams, copper wiring, leftover plumbing materials. All of that has value.”
Whether you’re working on a large commercial job or residential remodels, it’s likely you’ll encounter these common recyclable metals:
Knowing what to expect—and how to sort it—lays the groundwork for effective scrap management.
Best Practices for Scrap Management on Construction Sites
Improving your scrap strategy doesn’t require major changes. A few simple practices can lead to better organization, safer sites, and more money back in your business.
1. Sort Materials at the Source
Train your crew to separate ferrous and non-ferrous materials early. A basic magnet test helps: if it sticks, it’s steel; if not, it could be copper, aluminum, or brass—worth more per pound.
2. Use Clearly Labeled Scrap Bins
Set up designated collection bins on-site for copper, aluminum, steel, and mixed metals. This reduces contamination and makes hauling easier.
3. Partner with a Scrap Specialist Like Fair Salvage
Managing high-volume scrap on your own can be time-consuming. That’s why many Mid-Michigan contractors turn to Fair Salvage for professional support—including our On-Site Scrap Container Program.
What is the On-Site Scrap Container Program?
It’s the easiest way to turn construction scrap into revenue—without disrupting your workflow.
Here’s how it works:
- Place Your Order
Choose a container size that fits your project—from 9-yard to 60-yard options. - Fill as You Work
No sorting required. Just load the container with approved materials as the job progresses. - Schedule Pickup and Get Paid
We haul it, weigh it, and pay you based on real-time scrap prices.
This service is trusted by construction crews working on homes, barns, warehouses, and commercial buildings throughout the region.
Why Contractors Choose Fair Salvage
Contractors across Mid-Michigan trust Fair Salvage because we understand their business. We’re fast, reliable, and easy to work with—and we pay competitively based on market rates.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Fast Pickup and Turnaround: Containers delivered and removed on your schedule.
- Transparent Pricing: Check our scrap pricing page anytime to monitor value.
- Dedicated Support: Our team knows construction and will help you set up a plan that works.
- Three Convenient Locations: Visit us in Clare, Chase, or Montcalm.
Customer Story: Clean Site, Clear Profits
A builder working on a series of lake homes near Montcalm reached out to Fair Salvage mid-project. With copper wiring, aluminum windows, and roofing scrap piling up, they needed a way to manage the mess and recoup some costs.
We dropped off a 30-yard container on-site. The crew filled it as the job progressed and scheduled a pickup when it was full.
“We saved hours of cleanup time and got a check for materials we were going to toss. I’ll never manage scrap on my own again.”
The Circular Economy in Construction
Choosing to recycle your construction scrap isn’t just good for your bottom line—it’s good for the environment.
Recycling metals reduces the need for mining, conserves energy, and keeps usable materials in the supply chain. Fair Salvage plays an important role in the Mid-Michigan circular economy, and we’re proud to help builders like you make a difference.
You can read more about the environmental side of recycling in our blog:
How Scrap Metal Recycling Supports a Greener Michigan
Start Managing Scrap Like a Pro
If you’re in construction and you’re not recycling your scrap effectively, you’re leaving money on the table. Let Fair Salvage help you streamline your process and maximize your profit.
Request a Quote today to learn more about how we can help your construction business manage scrap smarter.