When Rust Check Winnipeg approached me about their website, the core issue was clear: their existing site wasn’t reflecting the quality of work they actually deliver. The old design felt dated, mobile users were struggling, and the site wasn’t helping convert visitors into customers.
This case study walks through the transformation—from assessment to final result.
The Original Site
The existing Rust Check Winnipeg website had served its purpose for years, but it was showing its age. Here’s what we were working with:
The main issues:
- Dated visual design that didn’t match the professionalism of the service
- Poor mobile experience with text and navigation that didn’t adapt well to smaller screens
- Slow load times from unoptimized images and outdated code
- Limited service information that left potential customers with questions
- No clear calls to action guiding visitors toward booking
- Two distinct services competing for attention on a single cluttered page
The Challenge: Two Businesses, One Website
Rust Check Winnipeg actually operates two related but distinct services: rust proofing and a car wash (Madison Car Wash). The original site tried to serve both on one page, which diluted the messaging for each and made it harder for customers to find what they needed.
The solution was to create two focused landing pages—one for rust proofing, one for the car wash. Each page functions almost like its own mini-site, with dedicated branding, imagery, and calls to action. The visual language is consistent enough that you know you’re dealing with the same business, but distinct enough that each service gets the focused attention it deserves.
This separation means customers searching for rust proofing land on a page entirely focused on rust proofing. Car wash customers get the same treatment. No confusion, no competing messages—just clear paths to booking each service.
The Refresh
The new design focuses on clarity, speed, and conversion. Every element was rebuilt with purpose.
Visual Overhaul
The refresh introduces a dark, professional aesthetic that conveys expertise and attention to detail. The color palette draws from automotive industry conventions—clean blacks and grays accented with strategic color highlights that draw attention to key information and calls to action.
Typography was carefully selected for readability across devices, with clear hierarchy that guides visitors through the content naturally.
Mobile-First Approach
The new site was built mobile-first, ensuring the 60%+ of visitors accessing from phones get a first-class experience. Navigation collapses intelligently, images scale appropriately, and touch targets are sized for actual fingers rather than mouse cursors.
Performance Improvements
Page load times dropped significantly through:
- Modern image formats (WebP) with appropriate compression
- Minimal JavaScript footprint
- Efficient CSS with no framework bloat
- Proper asset caching
Faster load times mean lower bounce rates and better search rankings.
Clear Service Presentation
Each service now has dedicated space with:
- Clear descriptions of what’s included
- Transparent pricing information where applicable
- Visual examples of the work
- Direct paths to booking
Visitors no longer need to call just to understand what they’re getting.
Conversion-Focused Design
Strategic placement of contact options throughout the site means visitors can act the moment they’re ready. The booking flow is visible but not pushy—present when needed, unobtrusive when browsing.
Results
The refresh delivered measurable improvements:
- Faster load times improving user experience and SEO
- Reduced bounce rates from mobile visitors
- Clearer service communication reducing pre-booking questions
- Modern, professional appearance that matches the quality of work
Key Takeaways
This project reinforced several principles that apply to any small business website refresh:
Start with mobile. Most visitors will see your site on a phone first. Design for that reality.
Speed matters more than flashiness. A fast, clean site outperforms a slow, elaborate one every time.
Guide visitors toward action. Every page should have a clear next step. Don’t make people hunt for how to contact you.
Match your online presence to your actual quality. If you do excellent work, your website should reflect that. A dated site creates doubt before you’ve had a chance to demonstrate your expertise.
Similar Challenges?
If your business website is showing its age or failing to convert visitors, I offer free 30-minute consultations to discuss what a refresh could look like for your specific situation. No obligation, no sales pitch—just an honest assessment of where improvements would have the most impact.
Book a free consultation or email me directly at hey@nigelstewart.dev.