Garage door openers utilize different drive mechanisms to lift and lower the door. Two popular choices are chain drives and belt drives. A chain drive employs a metal chain, similar to a bicycle chain, to move the trolley that pulls the door along its track. A belt drive, on the other hand, uses a reinforced rubber belt for the same purpose.
Selecting the right drive mechanism significantly impacts the operational characteristics of a garage door. Factors such as noise level, maintenance requirements, and longevity differ between these two options, influencing the overall user experience and long-term cost. The choice between these systems has become a significant consideration for homeowners since the rise in popularity of attached garages and the desire for quieter, more refined home systems.