Build Smarter: Where to Recycle Construction Site Scrap Metal in Mid-Michigan
When you’re on a job site, every piece of material has value—especially the leftover metal. Whether you’re tearing down an old building, wiring a new facility, or clearing debris after a renovation, construction scrap isn’t just waste—it’s profit waiting to be picked up.
At Fair Salvage Company, we help contractors, demo crews, and builders across Central Michigan get the most out of their scrap metal. With convenient locations in Clare, Chase, and Montcalm, and some of the top prices in Mid-Michigan, we’ve been a trusted salvage partner for decades.
“For construction sites, we see steel banding, I-beams, copper wiring, leftover plumbing materials. All of that has value.”
— Jon Fair, Fair Salvage Company
Common Scrap Metals Found on Construction Sites
Construction projects generate a steady flow of recyclable metal. Knowing what’s worth salvaging can put more cash back in your pocket and help you stay ahead of your budget goals. Some of the most valuable materials we regularly see include:
- Copper wiring & tubing – Found in electrical systems and plumbing.
- Steel I-beams, framing & sheet metal – Salvage from structural supports.
- Brass fixtures – Faucets, valves, and trim.
- Aluminum gutters & window frames – Light, recyclable, and often overlooked.
- Cast iron bathtubs & pipes – Heavy, but high in value.
- Steel banding & rebar – From structural or packaging materials.
“Demo guys will have copper wire, brass fixtures, cast iron tubs, steel sheeting—tons of good materials.”
— Jon Fair
Why Contractors Trust Fair Salvage
When the metal piles up, you need a partner who makes the recycling process fast, fair, and profitable. At Fair Salvage, we treat every load like it matters—because it does.
We’ve worked with countless builders, contractors, and site managers across the region. Whether you’re cleaning out a residential remodel or managing a multi-phase build, we offer a process that keeps things moving quickly and transparently.
Here’s what makes us different:
- No Secrets Pricing – You’ll always know what you’re getting paid.
- Easy Drop-Offs – Our yards are built for fast unloading, even for large trailers.
- Friendly Staff, Family-Owned Values – We treat our customers like partners.
- Container Service – For larger or ongoing projects, we’ll bring bins to you (9 to 60 yards), with fast pickup.
Tips for Getting the Best Prices When You Recycle Scrap
Recycling construction site scrap metal is about more than showing up with a truckload. A little preparation goes a long way toward maximizing your payout. Here’s how:
🧰 Contractor Tips for Higher Scrap Value:
- Sort Your Metals On-Site – Separate copper, brass, aluminum, and steel. Mixed loads often sell for less.
- Clean It Up – Remove insulation from wiring, unscrew attached plastic or wood, and separate trash from your metals.
- Keep a Safe Scrap Zone – Designate an area for collection to prevent injuries and streamline hauling.
- Ask Questions – We’re always here to help you learn what you’ve got and how to get the most from it.
One customer, a builder from Barryton, used to toss his leftover rebar and pipe into a dumpster. Now, after visiting Fair Salvage, he keeps a scrap pile at every site. Last summer alone, he earned over $3,000 in reclaimed value—money he now budgets toward tools and labor.
From Waste to Value: A Central Michigan Scrap Success Story
A local HVAC contractor recently approached us after a commercial renovation in Mt. Pleasant. His crew brought in:
- 300 lbs. of copper pipe
- 150 lbs. of aluminum ductwork
- A mixed pallet of metal framing and banding
We helped them sort, weigh, and recycle their materials—earning nearly $2,500 in just one trip. That’s money back in their budget and less waste sent to landfills.
Choose the Salvage Yard That Builds Trust
Fair Salvage is more than a place to drop your scrap. We’re a family-owned business committed to helping Central Michigan’s builders, tradespeople, and scrappers get paid fairly and treated with respect.
Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or new to the industry, we’re here to guide you through smart, safe, and profitable recycling. Let us help you turn your next load of construction scrap into a real win.
Ready to Get Started?
Fair Salvage Company welcomes you at any of our three locations:
- Clare, MI
- Chase, MI
- Montcalm, MI
Check our scrap prices, bring your load, and let’s build something better—together.
📞 Contact Us for container scheduling or on-site service.