Copper is one of the most valuable and sought-after metals in the scrap world. Whether it’s wires, pipes, or roofing materials, knowing how to separate copper properly can mean the difference between #1 prices and getting paid less at the yard.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Where to find copper scrap
- The most common types and grades of copper
- How to separate copper wire and tubing
- Tips to maximize your payout
Let’s get into it.
What Is Copper and Why Scrap It?
Copper is a reddish, highly conductive metal used in wiring, plumbing, roofing, and electronics. It has been used for thousands of years, but today it’s most valuable to scrappers because:
- It’s 100% recyclable without losing quality
- It’s always in demand at scrap yards
- Clean, well-sorted copper can bring in top dollar
👉 The bottom line: the cleaner your copper, the more money you’ll make.
Where to Find Scrap Copper
Copper is everywhere if you know where to look. Common sources include:
- Household plumbing – old copper pipes from remodels or demos
- Electrical wiring – inside extension cords, appliances, and electronics
- Roofing copper – often tar-covered, but still valuable
- Kitchenware – pots, pans, and decorative pieces
- Electronics – TVs, computers, cameras, and power cords
- Appliances – fridges, freezers, washers, dryers, dishwashers
- HVAC units – AC units contain copper tubing and wire
💡 Pro Tip: Always check inside large appliances and electronics before scrapping. Hidden copper wiring can add up quickly.
Different Types of Scrap Copper (and Grades)
Not all copper is equal. Scrap yards pay different rates depending on cleanliness and condition. Here are the main categories:
Bare Bright (No. 1 Copper Wire)
- Clean, uncoated, unalloyed copper wire
- Shiny appearance
- Brings in the highest prices
#1 Copper Tubing/Bus Bar
- Clean copper tubing or bus bar
- Free of solder, paint, or fittings
#2 Copper Tubing
- Similar to #1 but may include paint, solder, or brass fittings
- Lower value
Roofing Copper (#3 Copper)
- Often covered in tar, paint, or other materials
- Less valuable than clean tubing or wire
Insulated Copper Wire or Cable
- Copper wire covered in plastic coating
- Strip it (if thick enough) to upgrade to Bare Bright
- If too thin, sell insulated to save time
👉 Rule of Thumb for Wire Stripping: If the wire is thicker than your pinky finger, it’s usually worth stripping. Thin wires often aren’t worth the time. See the below gallery to compare all the different types of copper discussed above.
Suggested Resource: Check The iScrap App Metal Guide for Types of Wires & Cables
How to Separate Copper for Scrap
Proper sorting is key to getting top prices. Here’s how:
- Separate Copper by Grade
- Keep Bare Bright, #1, and #2 tubing in different buckets.
- Don’t mix clean and dirty copper together.
- Strip Large-Gauge Wire
- Use a wire stripper or razor blade for thick wires.
- Skip small cords if stripping takes too much time.
- Remove Attachments
- Cut off brass fittings, steel ends, or insulation.
- Clean copper = better grade = more money.
- Sort Roofing Copper
- Keep tar-covered roofing copper separate.
- Scrap yards pay less, so don’t let it lower your clean pile.
Tips to Make the Most Money on Copper Scrap
- Sort before you go – don’t let the yard downgrade your mixed pile.
- Bring large hauls – bigger loads give you room to negotiate.
- Strip wisely – focus on thick wires that actually pay off.
- Check prices before selling – copper prices change daily.
Use the iScrap App to:
- Check real-time copper scrap prices at local yards
- Find the closest scrap yards near you
- Compare prices before you sell
Copper scrap is one of the best ways for scrappers to make serious money — but only if it’s sorted and cleaned correctly. By knowing the types, separating properly, and checking prices, you’ll make sure you’re not leaving cash on the table.
📲 Download the iScrap App today to find local yards, check prices, and make the most out of your copper scrap.
