Explain Codes LogoExplain Codes Logo

Prevent scroll-bar from adding-up to the Width of page on Chrome

html
responsive-design
performance
best-practices
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Oct 29, 2024
TLDR

To ensure a consistent page width in Chrome, deploy overflow-y: scroll; style within <body> or <html> tag, which permanently displays the scroll-bar:

body { overflow-y: scroll; /* Always visible, like your ex on social media */ }

Alternatively, using overflow: overlay; overlays the scroll-bar without affecting width:

body { overflow: overlay; /* Eye-catching style, like those '80s fashion choices */ }

But be warned: overlay isn't unanimously supported and might revive '80s fashion trends in some browsers.

Ensuring stable layout across browsers

Deploy scrollbar-gutter: stable both-edges; to maintain layout stability and prevent element shifts when the scrollbar appears or disappears:

html { scrollbar-gutter: stable both-edges; /* Like a good relationship */ }

This approach offers centered elements with predictability in your web design, ensuring they stay put even when the scrollbar decides to join the party.

Cross-browser compatibility considerations

Confirm that the scrollbar-gutter property is supported across different browsers by referencing resources like caniuse.com. Be mindful that other browsers may mimic auto, reinforcing the point to always test your designs on multiple platforms for the best cross-browser compatibility.

Addressing dynamic scrollbar sizes

Take advantage of JavaScript to effortlessly adjust margins according to varying scrollbar sizes:

const scrollbarWidth = window.innerWidth - document.documentElement.clientWidth; document.body.style.marginRight = scrollbarWidth + 'px'; /* Adjusting to the times, like skinny jeans to mom jeans */

By employing this code, your centered elements maintain their position even while the scrollbar width waxes and wanes, just like daily horoscope predictions.

Mobile and responsive design compatibility

Factor in mobile users and responsive designs by ensuring the visibility of horizontal scroll-bars only when necessary:

@media screen and (max-width: 768px) { body { overflow-y: auto; /* Natural scroll, as effortless as yoga poses on Instagram */ overflow-x: hidden; /* Prevent horizontal scrolling, avoiding awkward sideways glances */ } }

This approach improves navigation and reduces layout disruptions, particularly on devices where the scroll-bar has VIP access — everywhere.

Foreseeing deprecated methods

Be aware that overflow: overlay; is a deprecated property, much like floppy disks. So, it's wiser to focus on cutting-edge solutions — like the scrollbar-gutter property — which promises future-proof designs and widespread browser support.

Testing layout changes

Harness online platforms like CodePen or JSFiddle to witness the impact of your layout changes in real-time. Experimenting with different scrollbar-gutter options lets you explore the best results, much like fiddling with a Rubik’s cube.

Probable edge case handling

Instruct your code to deal with unconventional scenarios — whether there's a dearth or an abundance of content. Ensure these edge cases don't compromise the layout or user experience — keep things balanced like an acrobat on a tightrope.

.content { min-height: 100vh; /* Default minimum height, like pickup lines at a bar */ }