Specialty Metals of Iowa at 4601 Apple Ave, Lake Mills, IA 50450

Specialty Metals of Iowa is a self-service auto salvage yard and scrap metal dealer at 4601 Apple Ave in Lake Mills. Customers can browse and remove parts from junked vehicles themselves, or sell scrap metal like aluminum, steel, and copper. The yard serves both individuals looking for affordable auto parts and businesses needing scrap metal processing. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with weekends closed.

Services & What to Expect

The yard offers a self-service experience for salvaging parts from wrecked cars, trucks, and other vehicles. You’ll find engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, and interior parts. Tools for removal are usually available to rent on-site.

Beyond auto salvage, the business recycles scrap metal, including aluminum, steel, copper, and other metals. Pricing for scrap follows current market rates. The yard follows safety protocols for handling metals and properly disposes of vehicle fluids.

Staff can help identify parts or check compatibility during business hours, but customers handle the search, removal, and payment themselves. Prices depend on the part’s condition and demand.

If you have an old vehicle to get rid of, selling it for scrap is an option. Many salvage yards in Iowa buy junk cars for parts or recycling. The process involves a quick inspection, an offer based on the car’s condition, and a same-day sale.

Location & Hours

Specialty Metals of Iowa is at 4601 Apple Ave, Lake Mills, IA 50450, in an industrial area with easy road access. Parking is available on-site.

Day Hours
Monday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

The yard is closed on weekends and holidays. For the latest updates, including temporary closures, call (641) 592-2400.

Directions: The yard is about 10 minutes from downtown Lake Mills. Take the Apple Ave exit off Highway 14 and follow signs for Specialty Metals of Iowa. The entrance is marked, and the property is fenced with a secure gate during open hours.

Recent Updates

Specialty Metals of Iowa continues to focus on scrap metal recycling and auto salvage without major changes in recent years. The business follows Iowa’s environmental rules for metal recycling, as set by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources . These rules cover proper handling of metals, including lead-acid batteries and other hazardous materials.

Like other salvage yards in the area, scrap metal prices here change with market demand. Copper and aluminum prices, in particular, have shifted in the past few years, affecting what the yard pays for recycled materials.

No major expansions or service changes have been announced. The selection of vehicles and parts can vary depending on recent acquisitions, but the yard remains a reliable source for auto parts and scrap metal in Lake Mills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Specialty Metals of Iowa?

The yard is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s closed on weekends and holidays. Call (641) 592-2400 before visiting, especially during bad weather or around holidays.

Does Specialty Metals of Iowa buy junk cars?

While the yard is mostly self-service, it may buy junk cars for parts or scrap. Pricing depends on the car’s condition, make, model, and current metal prices. For the best deal, check with a junkyard that specializes in vehicle acquisitions.

What kind of parts can I find here?

The yard has a variety of parts from wrecked vehicles, including:

  • Engines and transmissions
  • Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders)
  • Bumpers and grilles
  • Interior parts (seats, dashboards, trim)
  • Suspension and drivetrain components
  • Electrical parts (wiring harnesses, alternators, starters)
The selection changes often as new vehicles are added. All parts are sold "as-is" with no warranties.

How does self-service salvage work here?

Customers browse vehicles during open hours and remove parts themselves. Tools for removal are usually available to rent on-site. Once a part is taken, payment is made at the office. Staff can help with part identification or tool rental but don’t remove parts for customers. Prices are set per part.

What should I bring to remove parts?

Bring:

  • Tools for removal (or be ready to rent them there)
  • Gloves and safety gear (parts can be dirty or sharp)
  • A vehicle to haul the part (they can be heavy or bulky)
  • Cash or a debit/credit card (payment types may vary)
  • ID if required (some yards ask for it with purchases)
Wear clothes that can get dirty, as parts may be greasy or covered in debris.

Are there any restrictions on part removal?

Common restrictions include:

  • No airbags or other safety components (they can be hazardous)
  • No fluids (oil, coolant) from vehicles (these are usually drained or sold separately)
  • No catalytic converters (they may be restricted due to precious metal content)
  • No dismantling vehicles beyond what’s needed to remove a part
Staff will clarify any rules when you arrive. Always ask before removing a part if you’re unsure.

Parts Pricing

Specialty Metals of Iowa doesn’t list public pricing. Part costs are set on-site based on condition, demand, and market rates. Scrap metal pricing follows industry standards and can change weekly. Call ahead or visit to check availability and prices for specific parts.

Prices last updated by business on: Not specified

Note: Prices are set by the business and may change without notice. Always confirm current pricing before visiting.