Contractor frustrated with poor website performance on laptop surrounded by tools and blueprints

Top 10 Contractor Website Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Rob CurtisWebsite Design

Contractor frustrated with poor website performance on laptop surrounded by tools and blueprints

Your website is one of your most valuable tools — or your biggest liability.

Homeowners and property managers don’t flip through a phone book anymore. They turn to Google. And if your website is outdated, confusing, or unprofessional, they’ll move on to your competitors — even if you’re the better contractor.

This post breaks down the top 10 contractor website mistakes we see every day — and how to fix them. If you want your website to actually bring in leads, not scare them away, you’re in the right place.

Want a professional to review your site and help you fix these issues? Learn more about our website design services for contractors.

1. No Clear Call to Action

The mistake: You’ve got a homepage, maybe a service page, and contact info buried in the footer… but no clear next step for the visitor.

Why it matters: People are busy. If they’re confused or unsure what to do, they’ll bounce.

Fix it: Every page should include a bold, direct CTA — like:

  • Call Now for a Free Quote

  • Schedule Your Service

  • Request a Free Estimate

Make sure it's easy to spot (ideally above the fold) and repeated throughout the page.

2. Not Mobile-Friendly

The mistake: Your site might look okay on a desktop, but on mobile? It’s a zoom-and-scroll nightmare.

Why it matters: Over 60% of users browse on their phones. A bad mobile experience kills trust and leads.

Fix it: Use responsive web design that automatically adapts to any screen size. A good mobile site means faster load times, readable text, and clickable buttons.

3. Slow Load Times

The mistake: Your site takes more than 3 seconds to load. That’s an eternity online.

Why it matters: A slow site increases bounce rates and hurts your SEO rankings.

Fix it:

  • Compress and properly size your images

  • Minimize unnecessary scripts or animations

  • Use fast, reliable web hosting

  • Consider a content delivery network (CDN) if your site gets heavy traffic

4. Outdated Design or Branding

The mistake: Your site still looks like it was built in 2012 (or worse).

Why it matters: Homeowners associate an outdated website with outdated work quality.

Fix it: Refresh your branding with clean layouts, modern fonts, and high-quality imagery. A well-designed website builds trust before you even speak to the customer.

5. No Local SEO or Google Business Profile Integration

The mistake: Your site doesn’t mention the towns you serve or link to your Google listing.

Why it matters: You won’t show up in local search results — especially in the map pack.

Fix it:

  • Add city/service area keywords naturally to your content

  • Create individual service area pages

  • Link and embed your Google Business Profile

  • Add your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) consistently across your site

6. Missing Trust Builders

The mistake: No reviews, certifications, or anything that shows people actually trust you.

Why it matters: Trust is everything — especially in contracting.

Fix it:

  • Display reviews directly on your site (don’t just link to them)

  • Add badges for licenses, insurance, and associations

  • Mention years in business or notable projects

  • Add “Why Choose Us” or testimonial sections to key pages

7. Poor Service Page Structure

The mistake: One generic “Services” page with a giant wall of text.

Why it matters: Google and your visitors want clarity. Specific pages rank better and convert better.

Fix it:

  • Break each core service into its own page (e.g., Roofing Installation, Roof Repair, Emergency Roof Tarping)

  • Optimize each with keywords and internal links

  • Include a CTA on every page

8. No Project Portfolio or Before/After Photos

The mistake: Your site talks about your work but doesn’t show it.

Why it matters: People want visual proof that you can deliver. Before-and-after shots are persuasive.

Fix it:

  • Add a simple project gallery

  • Include captions with project types, locations, or client comments

  • Use sliders to showcase transformations

  • Keep it updated with recent jobs

9. Weak or Missing Contact Options

The mistake: Customers have to hunt for a way to get in touch.

Why it matters: If they can’t call or message you quickly, they’re gone.

Fix it:

  • Add a click-to-call button in your site’s header

  • Place contact forms on every key page

  • Use live chat if you can respond quickly

  • Make sure your contact info is easy to find on mobile

10. No Tracking or Analytics

The mistake: You have no idea how many people visit your site — or what they do when they get there.

Why it matters: You can’t improve what you don’t measure.

Fix it:

  • Install Google Analytics

  • Set up conversion tracking for forms and phone calls

  • Review data monthly to see what’s working and where you’re losing leads

Your Website Should Be Your Hardest-Working Employee

The best contractor websites aren’t just pretty — they’re strategic. They guide visitors to take action, showcase your work, and build trust instantly.

But if you’re making even a few of these contractor website mistakes, you’re leaving leads (and money) on the table.

Not sure where to start? We specialize in websites that are built to rank, convert, and grow your business. Contact us today for a free website review or to learn more about how we can help.