Which One is Better?
Every website needs consistent care to perform at its best. Google grades your site on health, speed and client interactivity and ratings DAILY. Whether you’re running a small business, managing a growing brand, or just launched a new WordPress website, keeping your site secure, fast, and up to date is non-negotiable. But the big question is: should you do it yourself or hire professional website maintenance services?
Let’s explore both options to help you decide what works best for your needs, budget, and goals.
What Is Website Maintenance and Why Does It Matter?
Website maintenance refers to the ongoing process of keeping your site updated, secure, and functioning properly. This includes:
- Software and plugin updates
- Fixing technical issues
- Regular backups to prevent data loss ( if you ever get hacked or have a major plugin malfunction this is your rescue flotation device)
- Monitoring and improving site speed
- Ensuring mobile compatibility
- Strengthening site security (keep the bad guys out)
- Updating content and media (SEO and client centric content)
When done consistently, these tasks help ensure your website runs smoothly, supports your SEO strategy, and provides a great user experience. Neglecting maintenance can result in slow performance, broken pages, outdated features, or even cyberattacks.
The DIY Route: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cost savings: If you have technical know-how, you can avoid the monthly or hourly rate of professional help.
- Full control: You manage everything from updates to backups on your own timeline.
- Learning opportunity: Great for solopreneurs or web-savvy business owners who enjoy working behind the scenes.
Cons:
- Time consuming: Maintenance can eat up hours you could spend growing your business.
- High risk of errors: One misstep can cause downtime, data loss, or site crashes.
- Limited expertise: You’re responsible for handling technical issues and troubleshooting without expert support.
- No safety net: If your site gets hacked or breaks after an update, you’re on your own.
For small businesses juggling multiple tasks, DIY can quickly become overwhelming.
What Do Website Maintenance Services Include?
When you hire a professional team, you get access to structured website maintenance plans that typically include:
- Scheduled updates for WordPress core, plugins, and themes
- Site speed optimization and mobile responsiveness
- Daily or weekly backups to prevent data loss
- Real-time security monitoring and malware protection
- Fixes for bugs, broken links, or other technical issues
- Performance reports and analytics
- Dedicated account manager or support team
Many agencies offer tiered maintenance packages, making it easier to select a plan that fits your business size and needs.
At Design the Planet, we specialize in offering professional website maintenance services for small businesses in New Orleans and beyond. With over 25 years of experience, our team keeps your site secure, fast, and up to date so you can focus on running your business.
Why Maintenance Services May Be the Smarter Choice
While DIY might work in the early days, most businesses outgrow that approach quickly. Here’s why professional website maintenance services can be the better long-term investment:
1. Peace of Mind
You can rest easy knowing professionals are ensuring your website stays up to date, secure, and fully functional—even while you sleep.
2. Faster Issue Resolution
From broken forms to plugin conflicts, experienced developers can spot and fix problems faster than the average site owner.
3. Better Security
A reputable team uses best practices to minimize vulnerabilities, apply critical patches, and implement strong firewalls and monitoring tools.
4. Time-Saving Support
Instead of digging through support forums or watching hours of tutorials, you can reach out to your dedicated account manager or team and get solutions quickly.
5. Strategic Growth
Professionals can offer advice on improvements, speed enhancements, and integrations that align with your larger business and digital marketing goals.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Maintenance Packages
DIY may seem cheaper upfront, but here’s what you’re really trading:
- Time — Hours each week on tasks you could delegate
- Risk — One mistake could cost thousands in repairs or lost revenue
- Missed opportunities — A slow site or security breach can turn visitors away
Meanwhile, website maintenance packages offer predictable pricing and professional support. Many agencies charge an affordable monthly or hourly rate, which typically includes proactive services like:
- Speed audits
- Hosting coordination
- Mobile usability testing
- Content updates and more
Who Should Choose DIY Maintenance?
DIY might be suitable for:
- Tech-savvy entrepreneurs with time to spare
- New bloggers testing the waters
- Businesses with a very small site and minimal content changes
However, even these users should at least invest in a basic backup and security plugin.
Who Should Choose Website Maintenance Services?
Professional services are ideal for:
- Small businesses that rely on their website for leads and revenue
- Companies running WordPress sites with multiple plugins and integrations
- Brands planning to scale or redesign their website
- Anyone who values their time and peace of mind
Final Verdict: Maintenance Services Offer Long-Term Value
If you’re serious about ensuring your website performs well, stays protected, and continues to support your business goals, website maintenance services are worth the investment. Instead of patching issues as they arise, professionals help you stay ahead of problems, improve performance, and deliver a seamless experience for your users.
Whether you’re looking to protect your website design, avoid costly downtime, or simply focus on what you do best—letting a dedicated team maintain your website gives you the long-term peace of mind you deserve.
Ready to keep your website running smoothly and stress-free?
Let Design the Planet handle the maintenance so you can get back to growing your business. Contact us today to choose a maintenance plan that fits your goals and your budget!
