TL;DR – Options for a New Garage Door Opener
- Garage door openers make daily use of your garage safer and more convenient, with multiple types available depending on your needs.
- Chain-driven openers are durable and affordable but louder than other options.
- Belt-driven openers offer quieter and smoother operation, often with lifetime belt warranties.
- Screw drive openers provide fast, powerful performance and handle heavy doors well.
- Jackshaft openers mount on the wall, ideal for garages with low or high ceilings but typically cost more.
Garage door openers add ease and safety to everyday life, and once you install one, it’s hard to imagine going back to opening your garage manually. With so many opener types available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. The guide below explains the main types of garage door openers and the advantages each one offers.
Chain-Driven Openers
As the name suggests, chain-driven garage door openers use a metal roller chain to raise and lower the door. The trolley connects to the chain and moves along a steel rail to operate the door.
Homeowners appreciate chain-driven openers for their affordability and durability. They’re a budget-friendly option and built with long-lasting components that can withstand years of use.
However, one drawback is noise—chain-driven units tend to be louder than other opener types. If quiet operation is important, you may want to consider an alternative.
Regular maintenance is also essential. The chain and moving parts require lubrication to prevent rust and friction. Over time, the chain may stretch and need adjustment to maintain smooth operation.
Belt-Driven Openers
Belt-driven openers work similarly to chain-driven units but replace the metal chain with a heavy-duty rubber belt reinforced with stainless steel strands.
This design significantly reduces noise during operation, making belt-driven models a great choice for attached garages or homes where quiet performance matters. The elasticity of the belt also absorbs vibrations, leading to smoother, more fluid movement.
Another advantage is longevity—many manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on the belt. With only a slight price increase over chain-driven models, belt-driven openers are one of the fastest-growing options on the market.
Screw Drive Openers
Screw drive openers take a different approach. Instead of chains or belts, they use a threaded steel rod that connects directly to the motor. As the rod turns, it moves the trolley and opens or closes the door.
These openers are known for their speed and impressive lifting strength. Because they convert motor energy efficiently, they’re excellent for larger or heavier garage doors. They also operate smoothly, though not as quietly as belt-driven models. Still, they’re quieter than traditional chain-driven openers.
One consideration: screw drive units require slightly more headroom during installation.
Jackshaft Openers
Jackshaft—or wall-mounted—garage door openers are ideal for garages with unusual ceiling heights. Vaulted ceilings and low-clearance garages often make it difficult to install a traditional overhead opener.
Instead of hanging from the ceiling, the jackshaft opener mounts to the wall beside the door. Some models connect directly to the torsion bar, while others use chains and cable drums to operate the door.
These units tend to be more expensive, so it’s worth comparing the cost of modifying your garage for a standard opener versus installing a jackshaft system.
If you’re shopping for a new opener, the experts at Shank Door can help you choose the best option for your garage and handle the installation for you. Contact us today to get started.
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