Garage Door Opener Drive Types

At first glance, buying a garage door opener system is a simple purchase. Just get a garage door system strong enough to lift the door, and you’re done. But there are different options to consider:

• chain drive
• belt drive
• screw drive

Each option has its own pluses and minuses. Let’s explore the features of the chain drive system here.

Should I Choose a Chain Drive?

Chain drives are some of the most popular and durable openers on the market, and it is a reputation that is well deserved.

Chain drive systems use a heavy-duty metal chain, mounted on a sprocket, to lift and lower your doors.  This gives them extraordinary pulling power and durability.  But it is also your noisiest option.  Other considerations:

• Chain drives are perfect when you have a heavy garage door type, an oversized door, one-piece wood doors, and wind-rated or heavily insulated doors.

• If budget is your main concern, it’s hard to beat the durability and price of chain drive mechanisms.

• Many people who are concerned about noise will get a chain drive only if they have a detached garage. If your garage is attached, consider whether your garage is directly underneath a bedroom or other room where a quiet environment is important.

• Many upgraded chain-drive models can come with a mechanism that separates the chain slightly, keeping it from hitting the track. This can be desirable attribute that is worth paying extra for, as it cuts down substantially on the noise.

• Chain drive mechanisms are the most common drives used by builders, and often this is what most people have in their homes. If you are used to the sound of chain drives, the extra expense of other systems.

Check out our full range of chain drive garage door systems on our product page.