Chain-Driven Garage Door Openers VS Belt-Driven Openers
Garage door openers make it easier to access the garage and improve the safety and security of a home. There is a wide selection of models to choose from when looking to install or upgrade the garage door opener. One vital consideration when shopping for a garage door opener is the drive mechanism.
Chain-drive and belt-drive are the two most popular residential garage door openers among consumers in the market. However, each of them has different characteristics and pros and cons.
What is a chain-drive opener?
Chain-drive garage door openers use a metal chain to operate the door on its tracks. The chain is the part of an assembly unit attached to the springs that raise and lower the garage door. They are the oldest drive style and the most commonly used garage door openers in the U.S. due to their strength and durability.
Belt-drive garage door openers are similar in design but use a rubber belt instead of a metal chain as the driving mechanism to control the garage door movement. The rubber belt slides the trolley when someone triggers the door to open or close.
Chain-driven versus belt-driven garage door opener
Let us evaluate both garage door openers based on some vital aspects to make picking one easier.
Durability
Chain-drive garage door openers are sturdier and have a higher tensile strength than belt-drive. They are more suitable for wide, massive, and heavily insulated garage doors. Chain drives are ideal for handling two and three-car garages. Chain-drives have a longer lifespan and are more reliable than belt-drives, but are more vulnerable to rust and other damages.
Belt-drive garage door openers work great for single-car garages and small, light doors. They can lift heavy doors but can break down from the extra stress.
Cost
A chain-drive garage door opener is more commonly available and is the less-expensive option than belt-drive openers. It uses cheaper materials and takes less time and effort to install. However, continuous friction due to the movement of metal parts makes them wear out faster.
Belt-drive garage door openers are expensive but have a longer operational life, and they usually pay for themselves in the long run.
Noise levels
Though garage door openers make some noise and vibration, most people prefer belt-driven garage door openers as they operate more quietly and smoothly than their chain counterparts. Avoid chain drive openers if the home has an attached garage. Regularly lubricate and maintain the chain drive opener to keep the noise in check. It is more suitable for detached garages.
Convenience
Belt-driven openers have the edge over chain-driven openers when it comes to convenience. They are smoother and operate a little faster than chain drive openers, which require readjustments occasionally for proper functioning. Most modern garages rise and lower at a rate of seven to eight inches per second. The smoothness of belt-driven openers makes them operate faster.
Both chain-driven and belt-driven garage door openers are effective and serve the purpose well. Homeowners can choose the one suitable for them depending on their location, garage size, lifestyle, and needs. Consult a garage door professional for more information on the mechanisms of the two openers and assistance in choosing the best garage door opener for your home.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair offers full-service garage installation, repair and maintenance in Maricopa County. Emergency service available. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call (602) 610-0112
