If you’ve ever looked at a QR code and thought, nah, not for me (especially after your personal COVID-19 experience trying to get in and out of venues), you’re not alone. On the latest episode of The Good Builder’s podcast, Pete joked about not knowing how to make one… or how to use Canva, for that matter.
“Mate, you should drop in the comments how you actually do that,” Pete said.
“Because I would have no idea how to set up a QR code on a site sign.”
Well, Pete, you asked, and now we’re wondering who else out there is in the same boat. So we thought we’d break it down.
Let’s keep it simple:
- Why bother with QR codes on your site signs?
- How hard is it to make one?
- What’s this Canva thing everyone’s talking about?
What’s the story?
Back on the podcast, Aaron threw out a quick tip: If you’re putting site signs up when building homes, whack a QR code on there. He’s seen builders use it to direct potential customers to the house design or a project portfolio. It’s a small tweak that can generate leads on the spot.
“We did it with a few builders back in a previous life,” Aaron said. “And we found it very effective.”
“When people were checking out estates, they’d scan the QR code and see the design, and it greatly increased inquiries.”
Pete’s response?
“Sounds incredibly complex, but I’m sure it’s not that hard.”
We can confirm; it’s not that hard.
Why it matters
When people are walking or driving through new estates, they’re already imagining what their future could look like. A QR code lets them connect that moment of curiosity to your actual design, contact details, or display info.
They scan it, they see the floor plan or photos, and you’re no longer just a builder sign; you’re an option.
It’s a small tweak that makes your signage work harder, even after you’ve knocked off for the day.
How to create a QR code in less than 60 seconds
No tech degree needed. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to a site like www.qr-code-generator.com or just type “QR code generator” into Google.
- Paste in the website link you want to send people to (your homepage, project gallery, or even a specific home design).
- Click “Download” and boom, you’ve got a QR code.
- Open Canva (or get someone who knows Canva) and drop it onto your site sign design. Resize it, label it (“Scan to see the house design!”), and you’re done.
And if you’re in Pete’s camp, here’s a bonus tip: Canva is just a free online tool for making anything look good flyers, business cards, Instagram posts, and yes, site signs.
It’s drag-and-drop.
Super simple.
You’ll be a pro by Friday.
Oh, and you can even generate QR codes in Canva.
What should you watch for?
Make sure the QR code works before printing a bunch of signs, and whatever you do, don’t change the URL. Test it on your phone and make sure the link goes to something worth seeing: a clean layout, fast loading, access to your socials and clear contact info. If it sends people to a clunky website that looks like it was built in 2006, you’ve missed the mark.
Also:
- Don’t bury the code in the corner. Make it visible.
- Add a little call to action so people know what they’re scanning for.
- Keep it relevant to the home being built, if you can.
Final thought
We know it’s easy to ignore small stuff like this when you’re up to your neck leading a team, managing clients, or actually running the business. But a QR code on a site sign? That’s one of the easiest marketing upgrades you can make, and it costs next to nothing.
So, if you’ve got signs up but no code, maybe it’s time to change that.
Even if you’re like Pete and have no idea what Canva is, we’ve all got to start somewhere.
P.S. We think you’re bluffing, Pete, and playing it up for the podcast.
Author: The Good Builder
The Good Builder is a media platform that provides news and insights for Australia’s home building industry. From exclusive stories and curated insights to bold industry perspectives, we deliver the news and updates that keep builders, suppliers, and the entire home building industry inspired and ahead of the curve.
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