How to Change WordPress Website Template on a Live Site

Introduction

Changing the template of your WordPress website is a significant step that can greatly enhance the look and functionality of your site. However, it's crucial to approach this task with care to avoid any disruptions. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring that you have a smooth transition, whether your site is complex or simple.

Preparing for the Change

Before you begin, it's essential to make a backup of your current website. This precautionary measure will protect your site in case anything goes wrong during the process. You can use plugins like BackupBuddy or simply use the built-in WordPress Export function to save your content and media.

Navigating to the WordPress Dashboard

Log in to your WordPress dashboard by typing in your website's address and entering your login credentials.

Once you're logged in, navigate to the Appearance section and then click on Themes.

Here, you will see a list of themes that you've installed. If you haven't already installed the new template you wish to use, you'll need to do so by clicking on Add New and searching for the template in the repository.

Customizing the New Template

After installing the new template, you'll need to activate it and then start customizing it. This involves adjusting various elements such as colors, fonts, layouts, and sections. Go to Appearance Customize to access the theme customizer. You can control settings directly from here or use a page builder like Elementor to make more extensive changes.

Using a Page Builder

Page builders, such as Elementor, give you more control over your website's design and layout. To use Elementor, you need to install the plugin and then activate it from the plugins page. Once installed, you can open the page you wish to edit in Elementor mode by clicking the Edit with Elementor button in the Publishing section on the page edit screen.

With Elementor, you can make a wide range of changes, from simple text and image adjustments to more complex elements like buttons, calls-to-action, and custom widgets. The power of the page builder also allows you to create more dynamic and interactive content.

Ensuring Compatibility and Previewing Changes

Before making any live changes, it's wise to preview the new template. You can use the Preview button in the theme customizer to see how the changes will look on your live site. This helps you catch any issues early and make necessary adjustments before going live.

Conclusion

Changing your WordPress template is a process that requires careful planning and execution. By following these steps, you can ensure that your website updates go smoothly and make the most of your new template. Remember, taking the time to prepare and preview changes can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I need help with editing the template?

A: You can hire a WordPress developer or a service like Fiverr to assist you with the template edit. They can help you install Elementor or make necessary adjustments to your design.

Q: Can I change the template on a live site if it was built with a single theme?

A: If your site uses a single theme, be cautious. Changing it can cause layout issues, especially if a different page builder is used. It's often best to duplicate the site content and build it in the new theme before replacing the old one.