How to Add a Preloader to WordPress
Website speed plays a huge part in the success of your business, especially with regard to being featured in search results. This is due to the fact that search engines rate your site higher when it’s easier for them to navigate. When your site takes longer than a few seconds to load, the additional time can lead to a decrease in traffic and ultimately, revenue. One way to improve website speed is by adding a preloader to your WordPress site.
What is a Preloader?
A preloader is a graphic or animation that appears on your website while it’s loading. It’s also known as a loading screen or a spinner. The purpose of a preloader is to give users an indication that your website is loading and to keep them engaged while they wait. Preloaders can be customized to match your brand’s style and can be designed to include animations or graphics that reflect your business.
Why Add a Preloader to Your WordPress Site?
Adding a preloader to your WordPress site has several benefits. Firstly, it improves user experience by keeping visitors engaged while they wait for your site to load. This can lead to a decrease in bounce rates and an increase in time spent on your site. Secondly, it can improve website speed by reducing the amount of time it takes for your site to fully load. This is because preloading allows your site to load in the background while the preloader is displayed, which can lead to faster load times.
How to Add a Preloader to Your WordPress Site
Adding a preloader to your WordPress site is easy and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how:
Step 1: Choose a Preloader Plugin
There are several preloader plugins available for WordPress. Some popular options include WP Smart Preloader, Preloader Plus, and Loading Page with Loading Screen. Each plugin has its own set of features and customization options, so it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs.
Step 2: Install and Activate the Plugin
Once you’ve chosen a preloader plugin, you’ll need to install and activate it on your WordPress site. To do this, go to the Plugins section of your WordPress dashboard and click on “Add New.” Search for the preloader plugin you’ve chosen and click on “Install Now.” Once the plugin is installed, click on “Activate” to activate it on your site.
Step 3: Customize Your Preloader
After activating your preloader plugin, you’ll need to customize it to match your brand’s style. This can include choosing a color scheme, selecting a preloader animation, and adding your business’s logo. Most preloader plugins come with a variety of customization options, so take some time to explore the settings and choose the options that work best for your site.
Step 4: Save and Publish Your Preloader
Once you’ve customized your preloader, be sure to save your changes and publish your preloader to your site. This can typically be done by clicking on a “Save” or “Publish” button within the preloader plugin settings.
Best Practices for Using a Preloader on Your WordPress Site
While adding a preloader to your WordPress site can improve user experience and website speed, there are some best practices to keep in mind when using a preloader. Here are a few tips:
1. Keep it Simple: While it can be tempting to add flashy animations or graphics to your preloader, it’s important to keep it simple. A simple preloader that matches your brand’s style is often more effective than one that’s overly complicated.
2. Test Your Preloader: Before publishing your preloader to your site, be sure to test it on different devices and browsers to ensure that it works properly. This can help prevent any issues with website speed or user experience.
3. Don’t Overuse Preloaders: While preloader can be a useful tool for improving website speed and user experience, it’s important not to overuse them. Using a preloader on every page of your site can be distracting and may actually decrease user engagement.
Conclusion
Adding a preloader to your WordPress site can be a simple and effective way to improve website speed and user experience. By following the steps outlined above and keeping best practices in mind, you can create a preloader that engages users while they wait for your site to load. Remember, website speed plays a crucial role in the success of your business, so it’s important to take steps to improve it whenever possible.
