Buy Used Metal Drums in Nokesville

Save Money on Quality Metal Drums in Nokesville, VA - Your Complete Buying Guide

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find cheap, reliable used metal drums near you, how to pick the right ones, and avoid costly mistakes.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

You can save 50-80% compared to new drums. A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $80-120. A used one? Often just $10-20.

Used drums work great for:

• Storing water for gardens or livestock
• Making burn barrels for yard waste
• Creating planters for large plants
• Storing non-food liquids in workshops
• Rain water collection

What Types of Metal Drums Can You Find?

Open-head drums have removable lids. Think of a large paint can. The lid comes off completely so you can put solid things inside or clean it easily.

Tight-head drums are sealed except for small openings (called bungs) on top. These work better for liquids because they don't leak as easily.

Most drums hold 55 gallons. That's about 7 cubic feet - enough space for a small refrigerator.

Example: If you want to collect rainwater, get an open-head drum. You can easily install a spigot and clean out leaves. For storing used motor oil, a tight-head drum prevents spills.

How to Choose the Right Drum

Step 1: Know What You're Storing

• Water or food: Only use drums that held food products before
• Chemicals: Get drums with proper interior coatings
• Solid materials: Open-head drums work best
• Liquids: Tight-head drums prevent leaks

Step 2: Check the Drum's History

Ask what was stored in the drum before. Never use drums that held:

• Pesticides
• Paint or solvents
• Unknown chemicals

Safe previous contents include:

• Food products (syrup, juice, etc.)
• Soap or detergent
• Water-based products

Step 3: Inspect Before Buying

Look for:

• Rust: Small rust spots are okay, but avoid drums with holes
• Dents: Large dents can weaken the drum
• Lid fit: Make sure the lid seals properly
• Smell: Strong chemical odors mean the drum isn't clean

Safety Tips

Always wear gloves when handling used drums. The edges can be sharp.

Clean thoroughly before use. Even "food-grade" drums need washing.

Check local rules about storing liquids in drums. Some areas have restrictions.

Simple Buying Process

Decide what you need: Storage type, size, how many drums

Call ahead: Check availability and prices

Inspect in person: Don't buy without seeing the drum

Arrange transport: Drums are heavy - bring a truck or trailer

Clean before use: Even clean drums need a final rinse

Bottom Line

You can find good used metal drums in Nokesville for $10-20 each. Start with specialized drum dealers for the best balance of price and quality. Avoid scrap yards unless you're comfortable with extensive cleaning and repairs.

For most people, spending $15-20 on a decent used drum from a reputable dealer beats the hassle of a $5 scrap yard drum that needs hours of work.

Remember: The cheapest drum isn't always the best deal if it doesn't work for your needs or requires expensive repairs.