If you’re a tradie looking to get more leads — whether you’re a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or landscaper — you’ve probably wondered: Should I use Facebook Ads or Google Ads?
Both platforms can help bring in more work. But each one works differently, and choosing the right one can mean the difference between wasting money or getting booked out.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide what’s best for your trade business.
🔍 Google Ads: Great for “Right Now” Jobs
Google Ads are perfect when people are actively searching for your service. If someone types in “emergency electrician near me” or “bathroom tiler Sydney,” Google shows them your ad at the top of the page.
✅ Pros:
- High intent leads – People are already looking for your service
- Local targeting – You can show up in the suburbs you work in
- Fast results – Be at the top of Google within hours
❌ Cons:
- Can be expensive – Competitive trades mean high cost per click
- No brand building – It’s all about the click, not your business story
Best for: Urgent services and job-ready customers.
📱 Facebook Ads: Great for Getting Known and Booked
Facebook Ads don’t rely on someone searching. Instead, they pop up in people’s feeds — while they’re scrolling after work or on the weekend.
That means you can get in front of potential customers before they even realise they need you.
✅ Pros:
- Brand awareness – Show off your work, team, and happy customers
- Lower cost per click – Often cheaper than Google
- Great for showcasing jobs – Perfect for before/after photos or videos
- Powerful retargeting – Follow up with people who’ve visited your site or page
❌ Cons:
- Not immediate leads – People aren’t usually looking for a tradie at that moment
- Takes time to build trust – You need consistent ads and content
Best for: Building your local reputation, long-term visibility, and staying top-of-mind.
🛠 So, Which One Works Better?
If you need leads today: Go with Google Ads
If you want to grow your business long-term: Choose Facebook Ads
If you want the best of both worlds: Use both
Smart tradies use Google Ads to catch hot leads and Facebook Ads to build a strong local brand that keeps the calls coming in week after week.
🚀 Want More Jobs Without Wasting Money?
We help tradies run high-performing Facebook and Google Ads that actually bring in calls, quotes, and real work — not just clicks.
👉 Book a free strategy call today and we’ll show you how to start getting more leads, fast.