Garage door openers utilize different drive mechanisms to lift and lower the door. Two popular choices are chain drives, which employ a metal chain similar to a bicycle chain, and belt drives, which use a rubber belt reinforced with steel cables. A chain drive system moves the trolley along a track to open or close the garage door, while a belt drive performs the same function using a belt instead of a chain.
Selecting the right drive mechanism significantly impacts the operational characteristics of a garage door. Chain drives are known for their durability and affordability, and have a long-established history in the market. Belt drives, while generally more expensive, offer quieter operation and smoother movement, making them a popular choice for homes with attached garages or living spaces above the garage. The increased demand for quieter operation has driven innovation and improvements in belt drive technology.
