Kenton Web Design blog
Updating Shopify Themes Without Losing Your Customizations
By Artur Bobinski ·
Updating your Shopify theme is essential for security and new features, but it can be tricky if you have custom code. Here is how I handle these updates for my clients.
The Challenge of Shopify Theme Updates
I have been building websites for over 23 years here in Lockport, just outside of Buffalo, NY. In that time, I have worked on more than 300 projects. One of the most common questions I get from my Shopify clients in Western New York and across Canada is how to update their theme without breaking the custom work we have done. When Shopify releases a new version of a theme, it often includes bug fixes, speed improvements, and new features that help your store convert better.
Understanding How Shopify Handles Updates
Shopify has made progress with the 'Theme Updater' features in the admin dashboard. If you haven't made any manual code changes to your theme, you can often update with a single click. But for many successful stores, manual customizations are necessary to stand out. When you edit the code directly, Shopify flags the theme as 'modified,' which usually prevents the automatic update tool from working perfectly.
A Step-by-Step Guide to a Safe Update
If you are attempting this yourself, you must be methodical to avoid downtime. I always recommend working on a duplicate or a fresh install of the new theme version rather than editing your live site. This keeps your Western New York business running smoothly while we work behind the scenes.
- Create a backup of your current live theme before doing anything else.
- Install the latest version of your theme from the Shopify Theme Store (it will appear in your Theme Library, not as the live site).
- Open the 'Edit Code' window for both the old and new versions in separate browser tabs.
- Identify custom CSS files (like theme.css or base.css) and copy your custom styles to the new version.
- Review your installed apps; many modern apps use 'App Blocks' which are easy to move, but older apps may require re-installing code snippets into the new theme files.
- Test every functional part of the site, including the cart and checkout process, in the theme preview mode.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
One mistake I see often is store owners forgetting about their integrations. If you have a custom tracking pixel for your marketing or a specialized integration for a local Buffalo shipping provider, those might be buried in your theme.liquid file. If you just switch to the new theme without moving that code, your data will stop flowing.
Another issue is speed. Sometimes, a new theme version adds heavy features you don't actually need. During the update process, it is a great time to perform a speed optimization. I offer a flat-fee Shopify speed optimization for $1,095 that takes about 5 to 7 days. I clean up old app code and optimize your assets so your updated theme is as fast as possible for your customers.
Professional Support for Shopify Stores
Many business owners in Western New York and Canada find that their time is better spent managing inventory and talking to customers than digging through Liquid code. That is why I created the Kenton Commerce plans. These are designed specifically for Shopify users who need ongoing help.
I offer three levels of Shopify support: a $499/mo plan including 2 hours of hands-on work, a $999/mo plan with 5 hours, and a plan starting at $1,500/mo for 10 hours of work. These hours can be used for theme updates, adding new sections to your home page, or fixing technical SEO issues. Because these plans are monthly, you have a dedicated expert ready to jump in whenever a theme update is released.
Why Maintenance Matters for SEO and User Experience
An outdated theme isn't just a missed opportunity for new features; it can be a security risk and a drag on your search engine rankings. Google prefers sites that use modern, valid code and load quickly. By keeping your Shopify theme updated, you ensure that you are using the latest performance best practices developed by Shopify's engineers.
If you are not sure if your theme needs an update or if your customizations are holding you back, I offer a free 3-point website review. I can take a look at your current setup and let you know where you stand. It’s a simple way to get a professional opinion from someone who has been doing this since 2003.
Frequently asked questions
Will my Shopify apps stay installed if I update my theme?
The apps remain in your Shopify admin, but the code they injected into your old theme may not automatically transfer to the new version. You often need to re-enable them or manually move their snippets.
How long does it take to manually update a customized Shopify theme?
It depends on the complexity, but for most projects, I can complete a thorough migration and testing phase within a few hours of hands-on time, which fits perfectly into my Kenton Commerce monthly plans.
What happens if I update my theme and the site breaks?
This is why you should never update on the live theme. By working on a draft version in your Theme Library, your live site remains functional for customers in Buffalo and beyond until the new version is fully tested and ready to be published.
Want a second set of eyes on your site?
I've spent 23+ years fixing, improving and maintaining WordPress and Shopify websites. Tell me what's going on and I'll recommend a practical next step.
