Yes, most businesses need a website even if they have a Facebook page, because Facebook pages rarely show up when people search Google for a product or service, and you do not control who sees your posts. A Facebook page is a good place to talk to existing customers. A website is where new customers find you, check that you are legitimate and get in touch.
Here is what a website does that Facebook cannot, and when a Facebook page alone might be enough.
Why is a Facebook page not enough?
A Facebook page is not enough because you are renting space on a platform you do not control. Four problems come up again and again:
- Google rarely ranks Facebook pages for service searches. When someone types “roofer in Pretoria” or “birthday cakes Bloemfontein”, Google shows business profiles, websites and directories. Your Facebook page might appear when someone searches your exact business name, but rarely for what you sell.
- Few of your followers see your posts. Facebook decides who sees what. Organic reach for business pages is low, and Meta increasingly expects businesses to pay for it.
- You can lose it overnight. Pages and accounts get hacked, restricted or disabled, sometimes by mistake. Getting them back can take weeks.
- Not everyone uses Facebook. Many customers, especially business buyers, never look at Facebook when choosing a supplier.
What does a website do that Facebook cannot?
A website gives you a permanent address online that you own and control. It can:
- Rank on Google for the services and areas you cover, bringing in people who are searching right now.
- Make you look established. Many customers check for a proper website before they phone a business they have not used before.
- Answer questions before customers call: prices, areas, timeframes, FAQs. That saves you time and brings better-qualified enquiries.
- Collect enquiries through forms, bookings and WhatsApp buttons, and send them straight to you.
- Sell online with a store that takes PayFast, Yoco or Ozow payments.
- Work with Google Ads and Google Business Profile, which perform better when they link to a good website.
- Get quoted by AI tools like ChatGPT and Google AI Overviews, which draw on clear, factual website content.
- Give you a professional email address on your own domain, such as hello@yourbusiness.co.za.
When is a Facebook page enough?
A Facebook page alone can be enough if almost all your customers come through word of mouth and Facebook groups, you have no plans to grow beyond your current area, and nobody searches Google for what you do. Examples might be a home baker who sells only to a local community group, or a hobby business. Even then, a free Google Business Profile is worth setting up, because it is what appears on Google Maps.
Should I use Facebook and a website together?
Yes, Facebook and a website work best together. Use Facebook and Instagram to stay in touch with customers, share recent work and run promotions. Use your website as the home base those posts link back to, where people can read the details and contact you. Over time, your website builds up Google rankings that do not disappear when an algorithm changes.
Should I build my website on WordPress or Wix?
WordPress is the better choice for most businesses that want to grow, while Wix suits people who want a quick do-it-yourself site. The main differences:
| WordPress | Wix | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You own the site and can move it to any host | You rent it; you cannot move the site off Wix |
| Monthly cost | Hosting only, from about R100 to R400 a month | Wix subscription, priced in US dollars on many plans |
| Ease of use | Easy to edit once built; setup needs some skill | Very easy drag-and-drop for beginners |
| SEO and speed | Full control; very fast with a custom theme | Good basics, less control, often slower |
| South African payments | PayFast, Yoco, Ozow and more through WooCommerce | More limited choice |
| Growth | Bookings, stores, memberships, integrations | Limited to what Wix offers |
Rusted Web builds every site on WordPress with a custom theme, so you get the ownership and flexibility of WordPress with an editor that is simple to use.
How much does a basic website cost?
A basic professional website in South Africa costs about R3 500 to R15 000 once-off, plus R100 to R500 a month to run. Rusted Web’s Starter website covers up to 3 pages from R5 900, or from R849 a month with nothing upfront on a 12-month plan that includes hosting and updates. For a full breakdown, read how much a website costs in South Africa.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Google Business Profile better than a Facebook page?
For being found by new local customers, yes. A Google Business Profile appears on Google Maps and in local search results, which is where most people look for a nearby business. Ideally, have both, plus a website.
Can I run my online shop on Facebook instead of a website?
You can sell through Facebook and Instagram posts and Marketplace, but you rely on direct messages and manual payments. An online store takes payments automatically, works around the clock and ranks on Google.
How quickly can I get a website?
A Rusted Web Starter site takes 1 to 2 weeks to build. Once you approve it, it goes live within 12 to 48 hours when we handle your hosting and domain.
Will a website help my Facebook page?
Yes. Linking your website and Facebook page makes your business look more established, and your website gives Facebook visitors a place to see full details and contact you.
Ready to own your place online? Get a quote for a website from R5 900.