How to improve site speed on Squarespace for SEO?

@dorothea 

Improving site speed on Squarespace can significantly enhance SEO performance, as search engines use page speed as a ranking factor. Here are some strategies to improve your Squarespace site speed:

1. Optimize Images: Compression: Use image compression tools to reduce file size without sacrificing quality before uploading them to Squarespace. Image Formats: Use the most appropriate format. JPEG is generally good for photographs, while PNG is best for images with transparent backgrounds. Proper Dimensions: Ensure images are the right dimensions for their placeholders to avoid automatic resizing during loading.
2. Enable AMP for Blog Pages: Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) can help improve load times on mobile devices. Squarespace supports AMP for blog posts, which can be enabled in the Blog Page settings.
3. Limit Use of Scripts and Custom Code: Excessive use of scripts or custom code (JavaScript, CSS) can slow down your site. Only use custom code when necessary and ensure it is optimized and minimal.
4. Reduce Animations and Videos: Consider limiting the use of heavy animations and large video files. If videos are necessary, host them on external platforms like YouTube or Vimeo and embed them instead.
5. Use Minimalist Design: Simpler designs generally load faster. Avoid overly complex layouts or elements that could slow down your site.
6. Leverage Browser Caching: While Squarespace handles most caching automatically, you can encourage users to keep cache data by frequently updating your site to ensure they get the latest content without needing to clear their cache.
7. Utilize Built-In Features Efficiently: Take full advantage of the platform’s built-in features like responsive design and optimized templates, which are inherently designed to enhance performance.
8. Monitor Third-Party Integrations: Some third-party plugins or integrations can slow down site performance. Regularly review and assess the need for each third-party integration.
9. Test and Assess Regularly: Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights, GTmetrix, or Pingdom to regularly test your site’s speed and identify areas for improvement.
10. Contact Support if Needed: If you encounter persistent speed issues, consider reaching out to Squarespace support for assistance, as they might be able to offer specific advice based on platform updates or your particular setup.

By implementing these strategies, you can improve your Squarespace site’s speed, enhancing both user experience and SEO performance.