How we got our website to 100 on Google PageSpeed (and what it means for yours)

When we launched our new website, we put it through the same test we use on every client site: Google’s free PageSpeed Insights. It checks how quickly a page loads, how easy it is to use for everyone, and whether it follows Google’s best practices. After a few careful tweaks, here’s where we landed.

Our first test, straight after launch, scored 73 for speed on mobile and 80 on desktop. Not bad, but not where we wanted to be. Here’s what made the difference.

What we changed

• Right-sized images. The big image at the top of our home page was being sent to every phone at full desktop size. Now each device downloads a version that fits its screen, which cut it from 156KB to around 30–45KB on phones.
• Browser caching. Fonts, scripts and images are now saved by your browser, so pages open almost instantly the second time you visit.
• Removing what wasn’t needed. WordPress was loading a video player on every page, even though the site has no videos. We switched it off.
• Accessibility fixes. We made a few colours a shade darker so text is easier to read, gave links clearer labels for screen readers, and made sure people can pinch to zoom on their phones.

None of these changed how the site looks. They just made it lighter, quicker and easier for everyone to use.

Why it matters for your business

Most people visiting a small business website are on their phone, often on mobile data. If your site takes too long to appear, many of them simply go back and click on the next result, usually a competitor.

Speed and usability also feed into how Google judges your site. On its own, a perfect score won’t jump you to the top of Google, as good content, reviews and your Google Business Profile matter more. But a slow, clunky site holds everything else back.

How does your website score?

You can test your own site for free at pagespeed.web.dev. Just enter your web address and check both the Mobile and Desktop tabs. If your scores are in orange or red, there’s usually plenty that can be improved without a full rebuild.

Every website we build and look after is tuned for speed as standard. If you’d like us to look at yours, get in touch for a free, no-pressure check.