Church Website Redirects: Preserve Rankings During a Redesign
Learn how to use redirects when redesigning your church website. Prevent lost visitors and protect your search rankings with this practical guide.
By the ChurchPress team at Amplify Digital Media
Key takeaways
- +Set up 301 redirects from old URLs to new ones during redesigns.
- +Test redirects to ensure visitors and search engines reach the right pages.
- +Keep a record of changes for future updates.
01
Why Redirects Matter During a Website Redesign
When you launch a new website or change page URLs, old links can break. Visitors and search engines may end up on error pages, hurting your SEO and user experience.
301 redirects send anyone who visits an old URL to the correct new page, preserving your rankings and making transitions seamless.
02
How to Plan and Implement Redirects
Before launching a redesign, make a list of all existing URLs and their new equivalents. This helps you set up accurate redirects and avoid missed pages.
Use 301 (permanent) redirects for pages that have moved or changed. Most web platforms or hosting providers offer tools to manage these easily.
- Redirect every important page, not just the homepage.
- Test each redirect after launch to confirm it works.
- Avoid redirect chains (multiple hops) by pointing old URLs directly to their new destination.
03
Common Redirect Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t delete old pages without redirecting them—this creates broken links and lost traffic.
Avoid using temporary (302) redirects for permanent changes, as these don’t pass full SEO value to the new page.
04
Maintaining Redirects After Launch
Keep a record of your redirects for future reference. This helps if you need to troubleshoot issues or make further changes.
Regularly check your site for broken links and update redirects as your website evolves.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers
What’s the difference between a 301 and 302 redirect?
A 301 redirect is permanent and passes SEO value. A 302 is temporary and should not be used for permanent page moves.
How do I set up redirects on my website?
Most website platforms have built-in tools or plugins for redirects. If unsure, ask your web provider or hosting company for help.
Do I need to redirect every old page?
Redirect all important and high-traffic pages. For less important pages, redirect to the most relevant new page or your homepage.
Your next step
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