Having an attached garage not only provides shelter for your car and extra storage space but it also allows convenient access to your home. Many homeowners use the garage door as their primary entrance, which means it’s often operated several times a day. As such, invest in a reliable garage opener that will maximize your door’s functionality. Here’s a look at three of the most popular choices to consider.

Understanding Your Garage Opener Options

1. Belt Drive

For those wanting a quieter garage opener, belt drives offer an excellent solution. These use a wide rubber belt to push and pull a trolley, activating the door’s upward or downward movement. In addition to making little noise, this system contains minimal moving parts, reducing the need for repairs. This can help save you a great deal on maintenance. Belt-drive openers tend to be a good fit for attached garages located close to bedrooms. 

2. Chain Drive

Although they’re one of the oldest garage door opening technologies to exist, chain drives are still common in many homes today. The mechanics work similar to belt drives, but instead of a rubber belt, a metal chain runs along the trolley. This is one of the more affordable and durable designs, and it’s the only one that features superior lifting capacity for even the heaviest of doors. However, this is usually used for detached garages due to noise concerns.

3. Jackshaft 

A flexible and space-saving alternative is the jackshaft opener. This is a wall-mounted system that uses pulleys and cables to lift or lower the garage door. It will let you operate your door as efficiently and quietly as possible while requiring little maintenance. This opener has a clean, streamlined appearance, and it leaves room for overhead storage. Generally, it's most compatible with a door that has higher tracks. 

If you’re in the market for a new garage opener, trust JLR Garage Door in Delano, MN, to guide you through the buying process. Backed by more than 30 years of experience, this family-owned company offers a wide range of quality products and services that will help you get optimal performance out of your garage door. They work with several industry-leading brands and can provide expert recommendations based on your unique needs. Call (763) 972-6311 to discuss what you’re looking for, or visit them online for more information about what they do.