Beams raises $9M in Series A funding to simplify home renovations for UK homeowners and contractors

Home renovation projects can be a logistical nightmare for homeowners and contractors, often bogged down by outdated tools or a complete lack of software. While modern solutions exist, the industry remains scattered, with many companies relying on inefficient systems—or skipping software entirely. This gap leaves room for frustration and missed opportunities.

Major players like IKEA and Home Depot still lean on legacy software with limited flexibility and clunky interfaces. Meanwhile, smaller contractors often rely on spreadsheets and basic tools, which fall short when it comes to managing complex renovation projects.

Enter U.K.-based startup Beams, which is on a mission to bring efficiency and simplicity to home renovations. The startup recently secured $9 million in Series A funding, raising its total to $13.3 million. The round was led by ETF Partners, with backing from investors like Giant Ventures, Firstminute Capital, and Borusan Ventures.

Outdated Home Renovation Systems Get a Modern Makeover with Beams

Founded in 2022 by Hayden Wood, Beams is reimagining the home renovation process with innovative software tools designed to benefit both contractors and customers. The company’s mission extends beyond simplicity—it also aims to make renovations more environmentally friendly.

“Simplifying renovations wasn’t easy. And it wasn’t easy to make it greener either. We had to build a whole new set of systems and tools the renovation industry had never seen before. But after plenty of refining and learning, we got it right,” Beams stated on its website.

Wood first noticed the inefficiencies in home renovation while working at renewable energy startup Bulb. He observed that homeowners were often discouraged from pursuing projects due to the risks and complications involved. Recognizing that residential construction lagged behind commercial projects in terms of software adoption, Wood envisioned a solution: a managed marketplace that connects homeowners with vetted builders, complemented by smart tools to streamline the process.

How Beams Works

Beams combines technology with hands-on project management to tackle renovation challenges head-on. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Predictive Pricing Engine: Leveraging data from over 6,000 past projects, Beams provides accurate estimates for costs and timelines, reducing uncertainty for homeowners.
• 3D Scanning and Laser Technology: These tools create detailed renovation models, allowing for precise planning and execution.
• Marketplace for Contractors: Beams connects customers with trusted builders, ensuring quality and accountability.

Since its launch, Beams has facilitated over £4 million in renovation projects, completed 25 renovations, and is currently managing 130 ongoing projects.

The Bigger Picture

Wood believes simplifying the renovation process can have a ripple effect, encouraging more homeowners to undertake energy-efficient upgrades. “Projects were often too risky or complicated for consumers, which meant many avoided making improvements altogether. I realized that if someone could simplify the process and reduce the risks, more people would be able to complete these upgrades and make their homes greener,” Wood told TechCrunch.

By bridging the gap between customers and contractors with smarter tools and a managed marketplace, Beams is setting a new standard for home renovation projects. With its fresh injection of funding, the company is well-positioned to tackle inefficiencies and help homeowners take the plunge into renovations with confidence.