What is the Use of ‘Preloader’ on a WordPress Website and How to Use It

You may notice an animation or graphic before the content loads when you visit a website. This function is known as a “preloader.” It’s widely used for branding. With pun intended, many website owners use it to hide their actual website loading speed. However, it has some real benefits as well.

This article will explore a preloader, its usefulness, and how you can easily add one to your WordPress website.

What is a Preloader?

A preloader is an animation or graphic displayed while the rest of the website’s content is loading in the background. It serves as a visual cue to visitors that the website is working on loading the content, and it can help make the wait feel shorter and more engaging.

Why Use a Preloader?

1. Improves User Experience: A preloader keeps visitors engaged while the content loads. Without it, users might see a blank screen or partial content, which can be frustrating and lead to higher bounce rates (when visitors leave your site quickly).
2. Reduces Perceived Load Time: Even if your site takes the same time to load, a preloader can make it faster because visitors are entertained or distracted while waiting.
3. Branding Opportunity: Your logo, brand colors, or any custom design can be used for your preloader, reinforcing your brand identity.
4. Indicates Progress: A preloader can show progress, such as a percentage bar, giving users an idea of how long they must wait.

How to Add a Preloader to a WordPress Website

Adding a preloader to your WordPress site is relatively simple and can be done using plugins or adding custom code. Here are two easy methods:

Method 1: Using a Plugin

1. Choose a Preloader Plugin: The WordPress repository contains several free and premium preloader plugins. Some popular ones include WP Smart Preloader, LoftLoader, and Preloader Plus.
2. Install and Activate the Plugin:
   • Go to your WordPress dashboard.
   • Navigate to Plugins > Add New.
   • Search for the preloader plugin you want to use.
   • Click Install Now and then Activate.
3. Configure the Plugin Settings:
   • After activation, go to the plugin settings (usually found under Settings or directly in the sidebar menu).
   • Customize the preloader appearance by choosing animations, colors, and other options.
   • Save your settings.
4. Test Your Preloader:
   • Visit your website to see the preloader in action.
   • Adjust the settings if necessary to ensure it looks and functions as desired.

Method 2: Adding Custom Code

If you prefer not to use a plugin, you can add a preloader using custom code. This method is a bit more advanced and requires editing your theme files.

1.  Create the Preloader HTML and CSS:

Add the following HTML code to your header.php file just before the closing </head> tag:

<div id=”preloader”>

    <div class=”loader”></div>

</div>

2. Add the following CSS code to your style.css file:

#preloader {

    position: fixed;

    left: 0;

    top: 0;

    width: 100%;

    height: 100%;

    z-index: 9999;

    background-color: #fff;

    display: flex;

    justify-content: center;

    align-items: center;

}

.loader {

    border: 16px solid #f3f3f3;

    border-top: 16px solid #3498db;

    border-radius: 50%;

    width: 120px;

    height: 120px;

    animation: spin 2s linear infinite;

}

@keyframes spin {

    0% { transform: rotate(0deg); }

    100% { transform: rotate(360deg); }

}

3. Add JavaScript to Hide the Preloader:

Add the following JavaScript code to your footer.php file, just before the closing </body> tag:

<script>

    window.addEventListener(‘load’, function() {

        var preloader = document.getElementById(‘preloader’);

        preloader.style.display = ‘none’;

    });

</script>

4. Test Your Preloader:

• • Visit your website to ensure the preloader appears while the content is loading and disappears once loading is complete.
  • Adjust the styles and animations as needed.

Conclusion

A preloader is a simple yet effective tool for enhancing user experience on your WordPress website. Keeping visitors engaged and reducing perceived load time can make your site more professional and user-friendly. Whether you use a plugin or add custom code, implementing a preloader is a worthwhile addition to any site.