TL;DR
- Partly. Your pages, posts, and images carry over, but theme settings and layouts may need to be set up again.
- A forced theme change is usually a redesign that keeps your content. We build it on a private copy of your site.
- Many newer themes are more flexible. You’re less locked into their layouts.
Can I Switch Themes Without Rebuilding My Site?
Your words and images come along. The look doesn’t. As Beth told one client whose theme had to go, “You’ll basically need a redesign.”
- The change is instant. A new theme shows up on your live site the moment it’s turned on.
- Theme settings may not transfer. Layouts, widgets (small content blocks in sidebars and footers), and menu placement may need to be set up again.
- Themes and plugins can depend on each other. On our own site, turning off an outdated plugin broke the site, because the theme still referred to it. Our developer removed the reference.
That’s why a full theme change happens on a development site (a private copy), not on your live site. See What Is a Staging Site, and Do I Need One?
What Does a WordPress Theme Control?
Your theme is the design layer: layouts, fonts, colors, header, and footer. Your pages, posts, and images are stored in WordPress itself, so they stay put when the theme changes.
Many sites also use a page builder (a tool for designing page layouts with drag-and-drop blocks). In Beth’s words, “Every theme, builder, and plugin is different.”
Why Would My Webmaster Recommend a New Theme?
Usually because your theme stopped getting updates. That puts your security and server upgrades at risk. See What Happens When a WordPress Plugin or Theme Is Abandoned?
- We ask the developer first. If they release an update, you may not need a redesign at all.
- We choose a theme with staying power. When a new one is needed, we pick a developer with a long track record.
- Newer themes give you more room. As Beth told one client, “With a newer theme, you’re not locked into its layouts and limitations.”
What Webmaster For Hire Recommends
- Don’t switch themes on your live site. Test on a private copy first.
- Ask before buying a new theme. We’ll check that it fits your site and gets regular updates.
- Keep the theme license in your name. See Do Premium WordPress Plugins Need to Be Renewed Every Year?
:: Common Questions ::
How Do I Find Out Which Theme and Page Builder My Site Uses?
In your WordPress dashboard, go to Appearance, then Themes. Your active theme is listed first. Click it to see its details, including who makes it. A page builder usually shows up in your Plugins list, with its maker’s name.
Which Themes Still Work With the Classic Editor?
The classic editor is WordPress’s older, simpler text editor. ThemeForest lets you search its WordPress themes by which editor they support. On our Webmaster Retainer, we can send you a filtered list.
Wondering If Your Theme Is Holding You Back?
Request a consultation, or see our Website Design Services.
