When choosing a garage door opener, the two main options are; a belt drive or a chain drive. There are some factors you should consider regarding the way, the driving opener works on the garage door daily. You can make a better decision for your garage after you learn more about the differences between the two drives.
A belt-driven garage door opener uses a rubber belt rather than a metal chain to open and close the garage door. It is the reason it is quieter than a chain drive door opener.
Belt-drive garage door openers are more expensive than chain-drive openers. A belt-drive opener, on the other hand, will be quieter, smoother, and last longer. Most homeowners consider the additional cost to be worthwhile as long as the belt-drive garage door opener can lift the door.
Factors to consider when choosing the best garage door opener for your needs:
Before you settle on which garage door opener to purchase, you should explore the following details about chain-drive and belt-drive door openers and their differences.
Price
Chain drive door openers are very affordable, time-tested, and less expensive. Often garage doors come with chain drive openers as you can find in the market. Belt-driven garage door openers are more costly but can be economical for homeowners who want a long-term solution.
Belt drives have a long shelf life because they use a trolley for the rubber belt’s up-and-down movement. Chain drive openers are not durable as there is friction between metals that wears down the parts of the chain drive quickly.
If you plan to buy a garage door opener, ask about an extended warranty to avoid the cost of repairs and replacement parts. Repairs and inspections will be performed in accordance with the warranty agreement.
Strength
Chain-drive garage door openers are stronger; they can lift more weight loads than belt-drive openers; they are the best choice for heavy garage doors, for instance, a steel carriage garage door. You should choose it, especially if your home has a 2-car garage door.
They can lift a 2- 3-car garage with no problems, while a belt drive will have a problem when lifting wooden garage doors or 2 or 3-car garage doors. Belt drive openers can operate in any garage, but they are hard to get, and homeowners can spend more money.
For a carriage door, the belt drive will get the job done with no problems. However, because of the improvement in technology, some belt drives can be used to lift any size of garage door easily.
Noise
Belt drives are quieter than chain drive openers; you may not hear any sound to alert you when your teen drivers are coming and going from home. However, you might withstand the noise from the garage door if your garage is detached from the main property and built away from the main property. Belt drive openers are the best to invest in, especially if your garage is attached to your house and close to a bedroom above it.
It is hard for people to get some sleep and can also wake up the neighbors near you because of the noise coming from the metal friction. It is ideal to use a rubber belt that pulls it on a trolley.
convenient
Belt drive openers perform better than chain drive openers. If you are thinking about buying a chain-drive garage door opener, you will need to make changes for improved functionality, but you can only do so twice a year.
The chain-drive door opener will necessitate careful and precise installation. Maintenance, adjustments, and lubrication will be required for the chain drive. Chains can wear out faster than ropes and belts if they are not properly lubricated.
speed
Both garage door openers operate at low speeds to avoid colliding with anyone or anything in their path. Manufacturers ensure that garage door openers pose little or no risk to people or property.
Belt drive openers move more evenly than chain drive openers, giving the impression that they are moving faster. Door openers with chain drives spring back up and down when someone opens or closes the door.
Noisy
Noise from a garage door, particularly at night, can be extremely annoying. Many people would rather open their garage door in peace when they get home. Hearing the garage door open and close can provide you with information about the presence or absence of intruders.
When your garage is away from the main property, the noise will be lower than when it is attached to the main house. You can use chain drive openers if the garage is away from your house. If the noise can be a problem for you and your kids, then you should use a belt-drive opener.
To Learn More about the Differences between Chain-Drive and Belt-Drive Garage Door Openers, Welcome To Powell Garage Door
Your preferences and desires should be the only factors guiding your garage door opener selection; however, your financial constraints should also be taken into account. If you want to buy a garage door opener, you should consider not only the dimensions of your garage but also its weight, noise level, strength level, and durability.
The chain drive and belt drive operate in different ways, but both are effective. Both are excellent alternatives, but you must choose the one that will work best for you. If you have a large garage with a heavy door, you will need a chain-style drive. If your garage doors are lightweight or small, belt garage door openers can do the job.
For help making a choice, you can always come to Powell Garage Doors. For both belt-drive and chain-drive openers, we’ll use our extensive expertise to help you make the best decision.
