Scrap Metal

Scrap Metal is a mid-game material in Timberborn that bridges the gap between the wood-based early economy and the metal-driven late game. Initially, Scrap Metal is obtained by scavenging Ruins and Underground Ruins scattered across the map using Scavenger Flags. These ruins are a finite resource, however, so colonies must eventually transition to mining as their primary source of Scrap Metal. Mines and Efficient Mines consume Treated Planks and other materials to extract Scrap Metal from the earth indefinitely, making them the only sustainable long-term source.

The most important use of Scrap Metal is as the input for the Smelter, which converts 2 Scrap Metal (plus a small amount of Logs as fuel) into 1 Metal Block over the course of about 2 hours. Metal Blocks are needed for the most advanced buildings and technologies in the game, so securing a reliable Scrap Metal pipeline is essential for late-game progress. Scrap Metal is stored in warehouses and weighs a moderate amount, so plan your storage capacity accordingly.

Early in a playthrough, it is wise to prioritize scavenging all nearby Ruins before they become inaccessible due to construction or flooding. Place Scavenger Flags near ruin clusters to maximize collection efficiency. Once your Ruins run dry, transition to Mines as quickly as possible. Mining requires a steady supply of Treated Planks (and by extension, Planks and Pine Resin), so your entire wood production chain must be running smoothly before you can sustain metal production. Efficient Mines offer better throughput than standard Mines, so upgrading is worthwhile once resources allow.