Is It Possible to Convert a WordPress Page to HTML? A Practical Guide

Can my website be converted to HTML?

Before deciding to convert your WordPress site to HTML, it’s worth considering whether your site is suitable for such a change. Not every website can fully function as a static HTML site. If your site is dynamic, such as an online store, a blog with regular updates, or a portal with interactive features (e.g., login system, shopping cart), it requires a database and backend to operate properly. In such cases, switching to HTML may be impractical or require additional solutions, such as external APIs. On the other hand, static sites, such as portfolios, business card sites with 4-5 pages, or simple informational pages, are ideal for conversion to HTML because they don’t need dynamic elements and can function without server-side backend.

Why convert a WordPress site to HTML?

Switching from WordPress to HTML can be a good idea in several cases:

• Faster page loading: HTML sites are static, meaning they don’t require database queries, which speeds up their performance.
• Greater security: The absence of a content management system (CMS) reduces the risk of hacking attacks.
• Lower maintenance costs: HTML sites don’t require plugin or theme updates, which reduces costs.
• Simpler structure: HTML is ideal for smaller, static sites that don’t need frequent updates.

However, the conversion process requires technical knowledge and time. Below, we outline several ways you can do it yourself.

What are the downsides of converting to HTML?

Despite its many advantages, switching to a static HTML site also has its drawbacks, especially for those accustomed to managing content in WordPress. If you use visual editors like Gutenberg, Elementor, or WPBakery, which allow easy content and layout changes through an intuitive interface, you won’t have this functionality in an HTML site. Static sites require manual editing of HTML and CSS code, meaning even minor changes—like updating text or adding a photo—require knowledge of these technologies. In this case, you have two options: learn the basics of HTML and CSS to make modifications yourself or hire professional services, which may generate additional costs and make you dependent on external specialists.

How to convert a WordPress site to HTML yourself?

Manual code conversion

Manual conversion requires proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create a static version of the site yourself. This process is time-consuming as it involves recreating each page, styles, and functionality from WordPress in pure code. However, this effort pays off with well-written code that includes only the necessary elements, free from redundant scripts or plugins. As a result, the site is lightweight, fast, and achieves high scores in tools like PageSpeed Insights, positively impacting SEO and user experience.

Advantages: Full control over the code, no dependency on plugins, high site performance.
Disadvantages: The process is time-consuming and requires knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Using plugins to export the site

WordPress offers plugins that simplify the conversion of a site to HTML. Popular tools include:

• Simply Static: Generates static HTML files that can be downloaded and deployed on a server.
• WP2Static: Exports a WordPress site as a set of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files.
• Static HTML Output: Allows exporting the entire site or selected pages.

How it works:

1. Install the chosen plugin in WordPress.
2. Configure export settings (e.g., select which pages to convert).
3. Download the generated HTML files and upload them to a server.

Advantages: Fast process, minimal technical knowledge required. Disadvantages: Plugins may not handle complex themes or dynamic elements (e.g., forms).

Using static site generators

Another approach is to use static site generators like Jekyll, Hugo, or Gatsby. The process looks like this:

1. Export content from WordPress: Use plugins like WP2Static to download content in Markdown or JSON format.
2. Configure the generator: Import content into the chosen tool and customize the template.
3. Generate HTML files: The generator creates static files ready for publication.
4. Deploy the site: Upload the files to a server or hosting platform (e.g., Netlify).

Advantages: Flexibility and customization options. Disadvantages: Requires learning a new tool and basic hosting knowledge.

Using online tools

There are also online tools that automatically convert WordPress sites to HTML, such as Web2Desk or HTTrack. These work by “scraping” the site and generating a static version. However, the results may be inaccurate, especially for complex websites.

Advantages: Quick and easy to use. Disadvantages: Limited control over the code, potential errors in site structure.

Common challenges during conversion

Converting a WordPress site to HTML on your own may encounter several issues:

• Loss of functionality: Dynamic elements like contact forms or search bars may stop working.
• SEO issues: Incorrect configuration can affect the site’s ranking in Google.
• Time-consuming: Even simple sites require many hours of work, especially with manual conversion.
• Device compatibility: Manual coding requires testing on various devices, which can be complex.

Why hire professionals for the conversion?

While it’s possible to convert a site yourself, outsourcing the task to a professional company has many benefits:

• Time savings: Professionals will complete the conversion quickly and efficiently.
• Quality assurance: A professional company ensures code accuracy, responsiveness, and SEO optimization.
• Preserving functionality: Experts can implement alternatives for dynamic elements, such as JavaScript-based forms.
• Post-deployment support: A company can assist with maintenance and updates.

Our company specializes in converting WordPress sites to HTML. We offer comprehensive services, including needs analysis, conversion execution, SEO optimization, and server deployment. With our expertise, your site will be fast, secure, and user-friendly.

Summary

Converting a WordPress site to HTML is possible and can bring many benefits, such as faster loading and greater security. You can do it yourself using manual conversion, plugins, static site generators, or online tools. However, the process requires time, technical knowledge, and attention to details like SEO and responsiveness.

If you want to ensure your site works flawlessly and attracts more visitors, it’s worth outsourcing the conversion to professionals. Contact us, and we’ll transform your WordPress site into a modern, static HTML website that meets all your expectations!