Google Ads vs Facebook Ads for Trades
Not sure which advertising platform will generate better leads for your trades business? We break down the costs, ROI, and best use cases for both Google Ads and Facebook Ads specifically for the trades industry in New Zealand.
Get a Free Platform RecommendationQuick Comparison
| Factor | Google Ads | Facebook Ads |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Per Lead | $30-$65 | $15-$35 |
| Best For | High-intent searches, immediate needs | Awareness, visual content, demographics |
| Lead Quality | Higher intent, faster conversion | Lower intent, longer nurture |
| Time to Results | 3-7 days | 7-14 days |
| Targeting Type | Keywords, intent, location | Demographics, interests, behaviors |
| Creative Format | Text-focused, limited visuals | Image/video-heavy, visual storytelling |
When Google Ads Works Best for Trades
Google Ads shines when you need to capture customers who are actively searching for trades services right now. Here's when it's your best choice:
-
Emergency callouts (burst pipes, electrical faults) -
Immediate service needs -
Specific trade searches (electrician near me) -
Commercial maintenance contracts
Pros & Cons
- • Urgent customer needs
- • High conversion rates
- • Local Service Ads
- • Pay for phone calls
- • Premium pricing
- • Click fraud risk
- • Competitive landscape
- • Limited audience reach
Pros & Cons
- • Cost-effective awareness
- • Visual service showcase
- • Retargeting capabilities
- • Wider audience reach
- • Lower urgency
- • More price shopping
- • Longer conversion time
- • Requires creative assets
When Facebook Ads Works Best for Trades
Facebook Ads excels at reaching your ideal customers before they're actively searching, building awareness, and showcasing your work visually. Here's when to use it:
-
Preventative maintenance services -
Seasonal campaigns (heat pump cleaning) -
Package deals and promotions -
Building local brand recognition
Cost Comparison for Trades
Understanding the real costs and ROI expectations for each platform helps you make smarter budget decisions.
Google Ads
Facebook Ads
Our Recommendation for Trades
Tradespeople should prioritize Google Ads for emergency services and immediate needs (70% budget), using Facebook Ads (30% budget) for preventative services, seasonal campaigns, and staying top-of-mind with past customers.
Real Trades Results
See actual results from trades businesses using each platform
Google Ads
Wellington electrician: 63 emergency calls in 30 days, $42/lead, 87% answered calls
Facebook Ads
HVAC service: 124 maintenance leads at $19/lead for seasonal tune-up campaign
Trusted by Trades Businesses
Don't just take our word for it. Hear from businesses we've helped grow.
"I have been working with Jason from Lucid Media recently on some projects and his knowledge and work ethic is always top notch. I have every confidence that Jason will always deliver. He goes above and beyond to make sure that all aspects are taken care of in a professional and timely manner. It is a pleasure to work with him and his team and I look forward to future ongoing partnership with Lucid. A big thank you for your outstanding work Jason!"
"I had a call with Jason and was so impressed by how in-depth it was. He really listened, understood where I'm at, and gave me a clear action plan that I can actually use. It was practical, straightforward, and made me feel confident moving forward with my ads. I couldn't recommend working with him enough."
"Jason gets the results he says he will. His approach to paid ads is methodical and data-driven. He doesn't just run campaigns and hope for the best. He analyses everything, optimises constantly, and delivers real leads that convert into paying customers."
"The team at Lucid has transformed how we generate leads online. Our social media engagement has skyrocketed and more importantly, we're getting consistent enquiries from people who are actually ready to buy. The ROI speaks for itself."
Common Questions About Google Ads vs Facebook Ads
Which is better for trades: Google Ads or Facebook Ads?
It depends on your goals. Google Ads works better for capturing high-intent customers actively searching for trades services. Facebook Ads excels at building awareness, showcasing visual content, and reaching specific demographics. Most trades businesses benefit from using both platforms strategically.
What's the cost difference between Google Ads and Facebook Ads for trades?
For trades businesses in New Zealand, Google Ads typically costs $30-$65 per lead, while Facebook Ads averages $15-$35 per lead. However, Google leads often have higher conversion rates due to greater purchase intent.
Can I run both Google Ads and Facebook Ads simultaneously?
Yes, and we recommend it! Running both platforms allows you to capture demand at different stages of the buyer journey. We can help you allocate budget effectively between platforms based on your trades business goals.
How long does it take to see results from each platform?
Google Ads typically generates leads faster (3-7 days) because you're targeting active searchers. Facebook Ads may take 7-14 days as the algorithm learns and optimizes. Both platforms improve performance over time with proper management.
Which platform has better targeting for trades?
Google Ads targets based on search intent and keywords, great for capturing active demand. Facebook Ads targets based on demographics, interests, and behaviors, excellent for reaching your ideal trades customer profile. Each has unique strengths.
Do trades businesses need both platforms?
Tradespeople should prioritize Google Ads for emergency services and immediate needs (70% budget), using Facebook Ads (30% budget) for preventative services, seasonal campaigns, and staying top-of-mind with past customers.
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