On the eve of a potential landfall of a category 5 Hurricane along the the coast of Florida, we thought we might mention how scrap metal recycling after a hurricane actually works. Here in Arizona, after monsoon it is rare to find large volumes of scrap to recycle or sell. Scrap metal recycling after a hurricane..well that is a whole different story.

After most major hurricanes (Katrina, Michael) we all saw  highlights of submerged vehicles and flooded homes.  Piles of wreckage lined the streets.  What most people don’t realize is that most of that wreckage must be removed and cleared. Which unfortunately that does create opportunity (not theft) of scrap metal.

Scrap Metal Recycling After A Hurricane

In 2017, over 185,000 homes were damaged and/or destroyed by Hurricane Harvey. This means an uptick in scrap metal potential from products like washers and dryers, screen doors, hot water heaters and so on that need to  be removed from residence. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, there were some scrap metal recycling companies that reported up to a 30% increase in sales.

Scrap metal recyclers in Florida may be seeing a surge if Hurricane Dorian hits land.

Another issue with scrap metal processing is that because much of it may be of unknown quality and origin, there is a possibility that it could be hazardous.  Radioactive scrap metal threatens both the workers who handle it and consumers of products made with recycled scrap metal.

What Tucson Iron & Metal recommends is roadside pick up of non wanted appliances or metals not wanted. DO NOT search through ruined homes or devastated areas looking for metals and or wiring without prior permission from owners and possibly law enforcement. Live wires and law enforcement can end a day of scrapping in a fatal way. The people in these communities may be suffering and don’t need pilagers invading their neighborhoods, be a service not a nuisance.