WordPress vs Webflow: The hidden cost of website maintenance

(Thankfully for me and my clients, Webflow does not use PHP).

WordPress is an incredibly popular website platform, but it does come with responsibilities that aren't always obvious when a website is first built.

The problem with WordPress? Maintenance

WordPress websites rely on several pieces of software working together. Alongside WordPress itself, there are often numerous third-party plugins providing everything from contact forms to image galleries.

These all need regular updates to address security vulnerabilities, fix problems and keep things running smoothly.

It's why many WordPress developers need to offer ongoing maintenance packages. They're regularly updating software, checking compatibility and resolving issues when something breaks.

Which means businesses can end up paying simply to keep their website working as it should.

Why Webflow is different

Webflow doesn't rely on PHP, so the recent security issue doesn't directly affect websites hosted on the platform.

It also doesn't have the traditional WordPress plugin system, removing much of the routine maintenance associated with keeping third-party and open-source plugins updated and compatible.

Instead, Webflow manages the underlying hosting, software and platform security.

That doesn't mean Webflow is immune to every security risk, but it does mean fewer things for business owners to worry about.

More time improving, less time maintaining

I'd much rather spend my time helping clients improve their websites than fixing broken plugins or carrying out routine software updates.

WordPress can be an excellent choice, particularly for businesses with specific technical requirements. But ongoing maintenance is something worth considering alongside the initial build cost.

A website should be an asset to your business, not another thing on your maintenance list.

That's one of the reasons I've specialised in Webflow for so many years.