Should I design the website on Webflow and export the code to host it on GoDaddy or is it better to design it directly on GoDaddy? Any tips or challenges I should be aware of?
TL;DR
- Design your site in Webflow for full customization, then export static HTML/CSS to host on GoDaddy if you don't need CMS or dynamic features.
- For CMS, form handling, or easy updates, it's better to host directly on Webflow or point your GoDaddy domain to Webflow hosting.
Designing your website on Webflow and exporting it to host on GoDaddy is technically possible, but it comes with limitations. Here's a breakdown to help you make the best choice.
1. Webflow vs. GoDaddy for Web Design
- Webflow is a powerful visual web design tool with built-in CMS, animation features, and flexible design control. It’s ideal for custom, responsive websites.
- GoDaddy primarily offers hosting and a basic drag-and-drop website builder (GoDaddy Website Builder). Its design capabilities are limited compared to Webflow.
2. Exporting Webflow Code: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- You keep the clean, responsive frontend design built in Webflow.
- You retain full control over your hosting setup on GoDaddy.
Cons:
- No CMS Functionality: Webflow’s CMS content, dynamic collections, and Editor won’t work in exported code.
- No Form Handling: Webflow forms won’t submit unless you set up your own server-side form processing or use a third-party service like Formspree or Basin.
- No Webflow-specific Features: Interactions (some animations, scroll effects) might break or require JavaScript tweaks post-export.
- No Continued Edits in Webflow: After export, updates must be done manually to the code or re-exported entirely.
3. Hosting on GoDaddy: Considerations
- Hosting providers like GoDaddy can serve exported static HTML/CSS/JS without issue.
- No automatic integration for features like Webflow CMS, site search, or backups.
- Domains are easily manageable, but any dynamic logic will need custom development.
4. Recommended Approach
- If you need a fully static site, Webflow-to-GoDaddy can work well.
- If you need CMS, form handling, or frequent updates, consider hosting directly on Webflow instead.
- If you're just using GoDaddy for domain registration, you can point your domain to Webflow with A and CNAME records.
Summary
Use Webflow to design your site if you want more flexibility and professional control. Exporting to GoDaddy is viable for static sites, but you'll lose CMS and dynamic features. For ease of updates and complete functionality, hosting directly on Webflow is the better long-term solution.