Consumers have a choice of several types of garage door openers available in the marketplace, with the differences between the openers centering upon the type of drive mechanism that the opener uses to mechanically lift the door. The options available include chain, belt and screw driven openers, all of which are mounted on the ceiling of the garage. A qualified garage door contractor can provide professional guidance on which opener will meet the individual needs of each property owner.
The most popular type of garage door opener is the chain driven opener, which utilizes a chain to raise and lower the door. While they are very economical and reliable, they tend to be noisy, which is their main disadvantage. As with all chain driven mechanical devices, the chain does require periodic lubrication to keep the links in the chain operating freely.
Belt driven garage door openers use a non-metallic synthetic belt to raise and lower the door. They are also economical, very quiet and reliable as well. As with any other mechanical item, the belt may need to be replaced periodically.
Openers using a screw drive mechanism to raise and lower the garage door are a great option as well. While generally a bit more expensive than chain or belt driven openers, they are especially quiet and a perform very well in cold weather as the components of the screw drive is more tolerant of extreme cold than the chain and belt driven openers.
All three types of openers are excellent choices and a qualified garage door contractor will be happy to recommend the best option for the individual needs of each homeowner!
