Wondering what a WordPress theme framework is and if you should use one? 

WordPress theme frameworks expedite the creation of stunning child themes by developers. However, you may want to analyze their pros and downsides. 

This post will define precisely what a WordPress theme framework is. We will also discuss the many theme frameworks, their merits and downsides, and our preferred frameworks. 

What Is a Theme Framework for WordPress? 

A parent theme is a form of WordPress theme structure. It comprises the essential features of a theme but not its visual design. A theme framework must be deployed with a “child theme” that controls the website’s appearance. 

Why not include all the code in one theme? 

Developers use theme frameworks because they enable them to reuse a significant amount of code across several themes. Without having to rewrite many of the same functionalities, they may quickly develop several child themes with distinct styles. 

Child themes inherit the framework’s capabilities. 

• In the earliest days of WordPress, there were significant challenges with developing and maintaining WordPress themes. 

• The inability to upgrade WordPress themes without removing user-added custom code was a significant concern. 
• Before frameworks existed, developers could only reuse code by copying and pasting it into all of their themes. 

This posed a security risk for WordPress. For instance, if a theme included a security flaw, there was no easy method to deploy a fix to all the other themes based on the same code. 

The WordPress core team and community created parent and child themes. 

With frameworks, releasing an update without affecting anything in the child theme is quite simple. This strategy enables you to maintain the integrity of your website’s “framework” without altering its appearance. 

What are the good and obstacles to using theme frameworks? 

There are benefits and drawbacks to employing a WordPress theme framework on your website. Let’s examine both of them. 

Advantages 

Community: The most popular theme frameworks are supported by a large community. This makes it much simpler to get support-related responses. 

Built-in features: Theme frameworks often include widgets, blocks, and other elements. 

Code Quality: Because theme frameworks are often peer-reviewed, they are far more likely to adhere to all best practices. 

Upgrades: The opportunity to upgrade without sacrificing style modifications is a significant advantage. 

Disadvantages 

Unnecessary Code: Frameworks often include a great deal of unnecessary functionality. However, if the framework is well-coded, this should not affect your website. 

Limits of Frameworks: Frameworks often have limitations. If you want to make comprehensive modifications to your site, you may need to replace core files. 

Cost: The majority of theme frameworks are not free. A one-time or yearly fee is required to obtain updates and assistance. 

Should You Consider the Use of a Theme Framework? 

You may utilize a theme framework to speed up development if you’re a developer learning to make your WordPress themes. 

Alternatively, if you operate a small company, you may buy a theme foundation and child theme for your website. Buying a theme framework gives you access to several child themes simultaneously. 

For example, Genesis offers fantastic child themes for various sectors, which you can utilize and quickly modify to suit your requirements. 

Another benefit of choosing a framework for your website is that you can quickly swap designs without learning a whole new theme or framework. 

Our Preferred WordPress Theme Frameworks 

There is an abundance of WordPress theme frameworks accessible. Here are some of the most recommended theme frameworks for various purposes. 

Genesis Theme Architecture 

We suggest utilizing the Genesis Theme Framework based on our expertise. It includes a code library that is well optimized for WordPress speed and efficiency. 

Genesis is not cluttered with unnecessary features, so you may pick and choose the WordPress plugins your website needs. 

Many child themes for Genesis can be installed and altered easily. In addition, if you choose WP Engine for your WordPress hosting, you can access Genesis and all child themes at no cost. 

Divi 

Divi is a popular WordPress drag-and-drop theme. Due to its many child themes, it is a theme framework in and of itself. 

The greatest benefit of Divi is that it provides users with a robust page builder and theme customizer. Additionally, users may import custom templates to construct pages as required. 

Themify 

Themify is a WordPress framework featuring more than 44 themes, a robust page builder, hundreds of extensions and extra templates, and more. This allows developers and website owners to create websites without writing any code. 

Beaver Builder 

The popular Beaver Builder page builder for WordPress includes the Beaver Themer add-on. This enables you to build custom WordPress themes and landing pages without writing code. 

Astra 

Astra is one of the market’s most popular WordPress themes. The primary theme may be used independently, but with the Starter Sites add-on, you can integrate full website designs into your primary theme. 

Astra is a combination of code-library-based frameworks like Genesis and drag-and-drop frameworks such as Divi. It is compatible with any page builder, giving customers more flexibility.