My site takes a long time to load . . .

[Braden]

Hey there!

So, I have created a website for our construction business.

I just recently got the home page done, uploaded it, cleared my cache and found that it takes a long time to load.

For me, it was upwards of 15 seconds.

What can I do to fix this without removing the widget or the pictures?

https://pilgrimwayconstruction.com/sandbox/

[Egg Bramhill]

Hi Brandon, it's always worth looking at your page speed load via Pingdom. I don't pretend to understand 10% of it's report but it often points to slow loading data:

https://tools.pingdom.com/#5b439a4f26000000

[gwpriester]

Have a look at the spelling of Contact on the Nav Bar. It loads OK for me but everything seems too big. And the dark background does not feel inviting.

I wonder if the download speed has to do more with your web host? Others can comment on this.

[Braden]

Haha. Good catch Gary.

Yea I think youre right about it being too big. I like the spacing though, so I'll just scale it down.

I use the same hoster on a different website, and as far as I know, it loads super fast, but it only has one picture, or just a couple.

Could be that the host is having issues, but my the home page comes out at around 5MB in size.

Seems fairly large.

[Chris M]

Could be that the host is having issues, but my the home page comes out at around 5MB in size.

Seems fairly large.

That will probably be the photos. Resize them to be only a little bigger than the intended viewing size.

[Braden]

Thanks everyone.

I've heard a review that was pretty eye-opening.

I have a lot of work to do, and almost feel the need to start from scratch.

Discouraging.

[Chris M]

I have a lot of work to do, and almost feel the need to start from scratch.

Discouraging.

There isn't anyone here who hasn't started from scratch; I virtually plan it into my schedule! You'll also find you'll re-create a lot faster and easier because you have more clarity in where you are headed.

[cmpan1]

Thanks everyone.

I've heard a review that was pretty eye-opening.

I have a lot of work to do, and almost feel the need to start from scratch.

Discouraging.

Hi Braden,

No need to be discouraged... it's just a 'trial & error' game until your errors get less & your 'trials' become easier and better...

Basically what you've got so far is... ready? LOL Let's just say it's needs some help...
It doesn't convey CONSTRUCTION COMPANY! You know... something 'STRONG' 'SOLID' 'DEPENDABLE' etc...

For example... that font you chose for the home page heading... Your a CONSTRUCTION COMPANY... it's to frilly, designee... doesn't convey
to me a feeling of confidence.... Anyway, why go on...

If you'd like... I have some time on my hands tonight... would you like to see some Ideas for 'at least' your home page?
I could do some quick mock-ups and put them up on Xara space... then if you like any/part of it/them I'll just send you the file?

Let me know....

Cliff

oh... and if no... not a problem.... if yes... and you don't like something... just tell me... I have the thickest web design skin on the planet... I get beat up all the time.... I think I'm beginning to like it... LOL

[Chris M]

It loaded fine for me too although I did stare at it for a while waiting for something to fill the space.

I understand that you haven't started giving it a coat of paint or polishing the door knobs yet, but I agree with Gary, the overall page is too dark. The photos are the main focus and they become somewhat lost because of the fades. I would also tweak the photos themselves to be more vibrant (add a simple line frame?).

Playing around with colours is easy and personal, just make sure the content is front and centre. Backgrounds are meant help the foreground shine and be largely inconspicuous.