Site-Wide Code Injection on Squarespace

Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, you'll be able to:

• Access and use Squarespace's Code Injection feature
• Add custom code safely to your entire site
• Implement common customisations like analytics tracking and custom fonts
• Test and troubleshoot code injection issues

Introduction

Code injection lets you add custom code that works across your entire Squarespace site. You can use it to add Google Analytics, custom fonts, interactive widgets, or global styling changes. This chapter shows you exactly how to do it safely, even if you've never touched code before.

Lessons

Accessing Code Injection

Here's how to find the Code Injection feature in Squarespace:

1. Log into your Squarespace account
2. Go to Settings from your Home Menu
3. Click Advanced
4. Select Code Injection

You'll see three sections: Header, Footer, and Lock Page. The Header section loads code at the top of every page, while Footer loads at the bottom. Most code goes in the Header section.

Important: Back up your site before adding any code. You can export your content from Settings > Advanced > Import/Export.

Common Code Injection Uses

Here are the most popular ways to use site-wide code injection:

Analytics Tracking
Add Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, or other tracking codes to monitor visitor behaviour across your site.

Custom Fonts
Include fonts from Google Fonts or other providers that aren't available in Squarespace's default selection.

Third-Party Widgets
Embed chat widgets, social media feeds, or booking systems that appear on every page.

Global CSS Styles
Apply consistent styling changes across your entire site, like custom colours or spacing.

Each type of code works differently, but the injection process remains the same.

Adding Code Safely

Follow these steps to add custom code without breaking your site:

1. Source your code carefully – Only use code from trusted sources like official documentation or reputable developers
2. Test first – Use a trial site or enable Squarespace's preview mode before making changes live
3. Add code gradually – Don't paste multiple scripts at once; add one piece of code and test it works
4. Check mobile compatibility – Preview your site on mobile devices after adding code
5. Monitor site speed – Some code can slow down your site, so test loading times after implementation

This is the bit most people miss: Always paste code exactly as provided, including any spacing or special characters. One missing character can break the entire script.

Testing Your Code

After adding code to the injection area:

1. Click Save
2. Visit your live site in a new browser tab
3. Check that the code is working (look for your analytics in the source code, or see if custom fonts are displaying)
4. Test on mobile devices
5. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to check if your site speed has changed

If something goes wrong, go back to Code Injection and remove the code you just added.

Practice

Try this simple exercise:

1. Go to Google Fonts and choose a font you like
2. Copy the provided embed code
3. Paste it into your Header Code Injection area
4. Add some custom CSS to use the font on your headings
5. Save and check your live site

Start with something simple like this before moving on to more complex code.

FAQs

Can I add both CSS and JavaScript through Code Injection?
Yes, you can add HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other web languages. Just make sure to wrap CSS in <style> tags and JavaScript in <script> tags.

Will custom code slow down my site?
It depends on the code. Heavy scripts or multiple tracking codes can affect loading times. Test your site speed before and after adding code.

Can I remove or edit injected code later?
Yes, you can modify or delete any code in the Code Injection area at any time. Changes take effect immediately when you save.

What's the difference between Header and Footer injection?
Header code loads first when someone visits your page, while Footer code loads last. Most tracking codes and fonts go in the Header, while some widgets work better in the Footer.

Does Code Injection work on all Squarespace templates?
Yes, Code Injection works across all Squarespace templates and affects your entire site regardless of which template you're using.

Jargon Buster

Code Injection – A Squarespace feature that lets you add custom code to your entire site from one central location

Header/Footer – Sections of your website's code that load at the top or bottom of every page

CSS – Cascading Style Sheets; code that controls how your website looks

JavaScript – Programming language that adds interactive features to websites

Global – Affecting your entire website, not just individual pages

Wrap-up

Code injection opens up lots of possibilities for customising your Squarespace site. Start with simple additions like Google Analytics or custom fonts, then work your way up to more complex customisations as you get comfortable.

Remember to always test your code and keep backups. Every expert started with their first line of code, so don't worry if it feels overwhelming at first.

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