Beacon, a distributor of roofing, waterproofing, and exterior building products, has announced a strategic investment and partnership with Renovate Robotics, a Brooklyn-based startup specializing in autonomous roofing technology. The collaboration aims to introduce robotic automation into the roofing industry, addressing labor shortages and enhancing job site safety.
Renovate Robotics has developed Rufus, a robotic system designed to install asphalt shingles on residential roofs. By automating shingle installation, the company seeks to improve efficiency and reduce workplace injuries, a persistent challenge in the roofing sector. The technology is set to launch with contractors in New Jersey and Pennsylvania later this year.
Beacon’s President and CEO, Julian Francis, emphasized that the partnership aligns with the company’s commitment to improving safety and productivity through innovation. Renovate Robotics CEO Andy Stulc highlighted the potential of robotics to transform the $60 billion residential roofing market by addressing workforce constraints and reducing risks associated with manual labor. He also noted that Beacon’s involvement, alongside Saint-Gobain/CertainTeed, will help accelerate the deployment of robotic roofing solutions. Beacon, founded in 1928, operates more than 580 branches across the United States and Canada, serving a customer base of approximately 110,000.
