Free Website Builders
6 Myths Every Small Business Needs to Know

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Published December 27, 2024 by Catapult Web Solutions


For small business owners, the idea of a free website builder sounds like the perfect solution: low cost, easy setup, and instant online presence. But is it too good to be true? Many myths surround free website makers, leading businesses to make choices that hurt their long-term success.

In this article, we’ll debunk the most common myths about free website builders, exposing the hidden costs and limitations that often come with these tools. You’ll also learn how professional website services like Catapult Web Solutions can save you time and money while delivering a website that truly works for your business.
 

Myth #1: Free Websites Save Money

 

The Truth: Free website builders may seem cost-effective, but hidden costs can quickly add up.

Free platforms often charge for essentials like a custom domain, increased storage, or ad removal. Additionally, the time spent creating and managing a DIY site means less time for running your business. Over months or years, these costs can far exceed the initial savings.

Missed Opportunity: A professionally designed website optimized for conversions and SEO generates more revenue, covering its cost many times over.
 

Myth #2: DIY Websites Are Easy to Build

 

The Truth: Building a website is more time-consuming and complex than advertised.

While free builders claim simplicity, designing a website that is functional, professional, and user-friendly often requires significant effort. Small business owners must navigate decisions about layout, branding, and technical settings—areas where expertise is crucial.

Missed Opportunity: A poorly designed website can frustrate visitors, leading to lost sales and a negative impression of your brand.


Myth #3: Free Platforms Offer Everything You Need


The Truth: Free website makers often limit features essential for growth.

Free platforms frequently lack advanced e-commerce tools, integrations, or scalable options needed as your business expands. Many also restrict functionality unless you upgrade to costly premium plans.

Missed Opportunity: Growth can be stifled if your website can’t accommodate increasing traffic or support advanced capabilities.

 

Accessibility Isn’t Just a “Nice-to-Have”

woman using screen reader to visit a website and access the content
Accessibility is essential for creating an inclusive experience for all users, including those with disabilities. Ignoring accessibility can alienate a significant portion of your audience and even result in legal challenges.
Free platforms often lack features like keyboard navigation, proper alt text handling, and screen reader compatibility. These are critical for compliance with standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

Tip: Use tools like WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool) to check your website’s accessibility. If you’re working with professionals like Catapult Web Solutions, accessibility is integrated into the design process, ensuring your website is inclusive and compliant from day one.

Myth #4: Free Websites Can Rank High in Search Engines

 

The Truth: SEO performance on free platforms is often subpar.

Many free website builders generate bloated code or lack advanced SEO tools, making it harder to compete in search rankings. Poor optimization for speed, mobile compatibility, and keywords can severely limit your site’s visibility.

Missed Opportunity: Without strong SEO, potential customers may never find your website, costing you valuable traffic and sales.
 

Myth #5: Free Websites Are Fully Accessible

 

The Truth: Accessibility is often overlooked by free website builders.

Web accessibility ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can use your site. Free tools rarely provide the advanced options needed to meet accessibility standards, potentially exposing businesses to legal risks and alienating customers.

Missed Opportunity: An inaccessible website not only limits your audience but also undermines your brand’s inclusivity.
 

Myth #6: Hosting Is Always Reliable

 

The Truth: Free hosting often comes with performance and security issues.

Free platforms host your website on shared servers, leading to slower load times and less reliable performance. Additionally, limited security measures can leave your site vulnerable to cyber threats.

Missed Opportunity: A fast, secure website builds trust and keeps customers engaged, while unreliable hosting drives them away.


Why Professional Website Design Is the Better Investment


Professional website design and hosting services, like those offered by Catapult Web Solutions, avoid the pitfalls of free platforms by providing tailored solutions that support your business goals.
 

What You Get With a Professional Website
 

  • Custom Design: Tailored to your brand and audience.
  • SEO Optimization: Improved search rankings and visibility.
  • Accessibility: Inclusive features for all users.
  • Scalability: Websites that grow with your business.
  • Reliable Hosting: Fast, secure, and monitored 24/7.
  • Ongoing Support: Expert guidance to ensure long-term success.

With these features, professional websites not only look better but also perform better—driving traffic, conversions, and revenue.


Try Our Free Website Design Demo—No Risk, No Strings Attached


At Catapult Web Solutions, we understand the importance of making informed decisions. That’s why we offer a free website design demo to show you what we’re capable of creating.

With no obligation and no strings attached, you can see firsthand how we design stunning, affordable websites that help businesses grow.

 

Why Choose Our free Demo?

 
  • Explore professional design options tailored to your business.
  • Experience the benefits of a high-performing, optimized website.
  • Gain confidence in your investment before committing.


Conclusion: Don’t Let Free Cost You More


The myths surrounding free website builders often lead small businesses to settle for subpar solutions that cost more in the long run. From hidden fees to missed opportunities in SEO and accessibility, the “free” choice can quickly become expensive.

Instead, choose a partner who understands your needs and delivers results. With Catapult Web Solutions, you’ll get a website that works as hard as you do—without breaking the bank.

Ready to see the difference? Try our free, no-obligation website design demo today and take the first step toward a website that helps your business thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a free website maker for small business?


A free website maker is a tool that allows small business owners to create websites without upfront costs. Popular platforms like Wix or Weebly provide templates and basic hosting, but often include limitations on customization, functionality, and branding.
 

2. Are free website creators really free?


While the basic version of many free website builders has no upfront cost, additional features like custom domains, ad removal, SEO tools, or e-commerce functionality often require paid upgrades.
 

3. What are the disadvantages of using free website builders?


Free website builders come with hidden trade-offs, including limited customization, poor SEO performance, forced branding, and scalability issues. They may also lack essential accessibility and security features.
 

4. Why is SEO important for small business websites?


SEO (Search Engine Optimization) ensures that your website ranks higher in search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. Poor SEO practices, common in free website builders, can harm your visibility and traffic.
 

5. How does a professional website builder benefit small businesses?


Professional website builders like Catapult Web Solutions deliver customized, scalable, and SEO-optimized websites. They also provide reliable hosting, ongoing support, and accessibility features to ensure long-term success.
 

6. What is the difference between free and managed hosting?


Free hosting often comes with limited resources, ads, and slower load times, while managed hosting provides secure, fast, and reliable infrastructure, including regular updates, backups, and 24/7 monitoring.
 

7. Can I scale my website as my business grows?


Yes! With professional website solutions, scalability is built in. You can add features like e-commerce, advanced analytics, or integrations to support your business growth.
 

8. How much time does it take to build a professional website?


The timeline depends on the complexity of the project, but a professional team can typically launch a small business website within a few weeks, ensuring everything is optimized and functional.
 

9. Is web accessibility necessary for small business websites?


Yes, accessibility ensures that your website can be used by all visitors, including those with disabilities. It’s a legal requirement in many regions and demonstrates inclusivity to your audience.
 

10. How can I get started with Catapult Web Solutions?


Contact us today to discuss your needs! We offer affordable, all-inclusive website design and hosting solutions tailored to small businesses. Visit our website to learn more!