When your garage door opener is outdated and malfunctioning, you’ll certainly notice it. Your garage door will stall, rattle, and make obnoxious screeches that make your skin crawl. Eventually, the door may not open at all.
If your garage door doesn’t open quickly and smoothly, it’s time for a new opener. Each type of garage door opener has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s crucial to understand them before buying. We’ll discuss five main garage door opener types to help with your decision.
Chain Drive Openers
The oldest type of garage door opener, a chain drive opener, is also typically the loudest. As the name suggests, these garage door openers work by moving the trolley along metal tracks with a chain. The movement can cause rattling and other sounds you’ll hear inside the house.
The main advantage of chain drive openers is their cost, as they are the least expensive option. If you have a detached garage, you won’t often hear; a chain drive opener might be for you.
Belt Drive Openers
Belt drive openers are similar to chain drive openers, but the moving part is a reinforced belt rather than a chain. The material varies, but a rubber belt is popular for this type. While belt drive openers are more expensive than chain drive openers, they make less noise as they operate.
Screw Drive Openers
A screw drive garage door opener has a few moving parts, making for easier maintenance than other garage door opener types. Unfortunately, screw drive openers can be loud. The trolley moves along a threaded rod, which resembles a long screw, as the motor turns the rod.
If speed is essential in choosing a new garage door opener, you might favour a screw drive opener. This type raises a garage door a few seconds faster than other options.
Direct Drive Openers
Consider a direct drive opener if noise is the biggest issue with your current garage door opener. Direct drive openers have moving motors instead of trolleys, resulting in quiet operation. While more expensive than chain or screw drive openers, direct drive openers have comparable prices to belt drive ones, and the lack of noise may be worth the cost.
Jackshaft Openers
As more modern options, jackshaft openers do away with the overhead rail and trolley entirely. Jackshaft openers attach to the wall on the side of your garage door and quietly operate the torsion bar to raise and lower the door. While each jackshaft opener offers different benefits, many come with remote control capabilities, battery backup, and security features (such as checking if the door is open or closed via smart connectivity).
Of the main types of garage door openers, jackshaft openers are usually the most expensive to buy and install. However, the added features, lack of noise, and low maintenance make them an excellent choice.
Call Your Local Raynor Authorized Dealer Today
Contact your local Raynor Authorized Dealer today to learn more about the ideal type of garage door opener for your home.
