Wondering what a WordPress theme framework is and whether you should use it?
WordPress theme frameworks help developers create beautiful sub-themes more quickly. However, they come with their advantages and disadvantages that you may want to consider.
In this article, we will explain exactly what the WordPress theme framework is. We’ll also explain the different types of theme frameworks, and address the pros and cons of using them.
What is a WordPress theme framework?
The WordPress theme framework framework is a kind of “main theme”. It includes the basic functions of the theme, but not the design. The theme framework must be installed using a “subtheme”, which defines the look of the website.
Developers love to use theme frameworks because they allow them to reuse a lot of the same code for many different themes. They can easily create many different sub-attributes that are designed differently, without having to rewrite a lot of the same functions.
This is because sub-attributes inherit all template frame work functions.
As you can see, in the early days of WordPress, there were some crucial issues with the way WordPress themes were developed and maintained.
One big problem was the lack of a good way to update WordPress themes without losing the custom code that users added to the theme.
Also, before frameworks existed, the only way developers could reuse the same code was to copy and paste it into all their themes.
This created a security issue in WordPress. For example, if there is a vulnerability in a topic, there is no quick way to apply the patch to all other attributes that are based on the same code.
With frames, it’s incredibly easy to push an update without modifying anything with the sub-theme. This method allows you to keep your site’s “framework” strong without modifying its look.
What are the pros and cons of using a WordPress theme framework?
There are some advantages and disadvantages to using a WordPress theme framework on your site. Let’s take a look at both.
Advantages
- Community – Most common template frameworks have a huge community behind them. This makes it much easier to get answers to your support questions.
- Built-in functionality – Themes frameworks often come with built-in widgets, blocks, and other features.
- Code quality – Topic frameworks are often peer-reviewed, so you’re likely to follow all best practices.
- Upgrades – The ability to upgrade without missing any modular customizations is a great plus.
Cons
- Unnecessary code – frameworks often come with a lot of built-in functionality that you might not use. However, if the template framework is well encrypted, it will not affect your site at all.
- Framework limits – frameworks often have limitations. If you want to heavily customize your site, you may have to bypass the basic files.
- Price – Most template frames are not free. There is a one-time fee or annual fee to receive updates and support.
Should you use a frame template?
If you’re a developer learning to create your own WordPress themes, you can use the theme framework to reduce development time.
On the other hand, if you’re a small business, you can purchase a framework and sub-theme to use on your website. Often, purchasing an attribute framework allows you to access many different sub-attributes at once.
For example, Genesis has excellent sub-themes for various industries that you can easily use and customize to your specific needs.
Another advantage of using a framework for your site is that once you learn how to use it, you can easily switch designs without having to learn to make a whole new template frame.
Our pick of the best WordPress theme frames
There are plenty of WordPress theme frameworks available. Here are some of the best theme frameworks we recommend for different uses.
Genesis Theme Framework
Based on our own experience, we recommend using the Genesis Theme Framework. It comes with a solid and highly optimized code library for WordPress speed and performance.
Genesis doesn’t swell with a lot of extra features, so you can choose and choose the WordPress plugins you need for your website.
There are dozens of sub-themes available for Genesis that can be easily installed and customized. Additionally, if you sign up for WP Engine for your WordPress hosting, you can access Genesis + all sub-themes for free.