When I bought my first home, I knew I was going to have to start maintaining different parts of the home to keep everything functioning properly. However, what I did not realize was that the garage door was one of these things. I decided to create this website because I had no idea how much maintenance a garage door needed and what types of maintenance. If you aren't cleaning your garage door tracks, checking for loose screws or oiling the tracks on a bi-monthly basis, I hope my website teaches you how to do this maintenance and the importance of performing it.
Automatic garage door openers provide your garage with safety and convenience. If you are thinking about installing a garage door opener, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with the choices available. Fortunately, you can make your buying decision a lot easier by taking these two key factors into consideration:
1. Opener Style
There are four main types of garage door opener styles available: belt-drive, screw-drive, chain-drive, and computer controlled. Although each style will do the job, it's up to you to decide which style is best for your home. But before you decide, you should take some time to learn a little about each style.
Belt-Drive: A belt-drive system is perhaps the quietest option available, since it provides the smoothest opening and closing. It is also very durable and can lift heavy doors because it features a steel belt drive and heavy-duty tire.
Screw-Drive: A screw-drive system is another option available. This style of opener uses a threaded steel rod to open and close the door. This type of opener is quite powerful and can open heavy doors. However, they can be slightly noisy. However, these style of openers do not require much maintenance since they have fewer moving parts.
Chain-Drive: As the name suggests, these opener styles use a metal chain to open and close the door. These are the least expensive option and are pretty common due to their low price. However, they can be a bit noisy due to the chain.
Computer Opener: Another option available is the opener that is controlled by a computer. These units do not use any chains or screws. Instead, it features a small computer-controlled box that sits atop the door. These units are pricier, but they work wonderfully for garages with limited space.
As you can see, there are many options available. The type you choose will largely depend on your budget and personal wants and needs. If you aren't sure which option to choose, the chain-drive option is probably the best bet since it is affordable and most common.
2. Keypads and Controls
The other main thing you should consider when purchasing a garage door opener is the type of keypad or control it uses. Popular options include remote controls, mini-remotes, wall-mounted keypads, and mounted buttons.
While all of these certainly do work, the keypad option provides the most security. Since the user needs to know the passcode, it ensures that not anyone can enter the garage. Remote controls are also fairly secure, as the user needs to have the remote in-hand to open or close the door.
For those that are more tech-savvy, consider choose a control that features smartphone applications. These type of openers will allow you to open and close the door remotely. Some even feature automatic timers that open and close the door—some may also operate lights and other features inside the garage.
Garage door openers come in a plethora of styles, each with its own set of unique features. If you are interested in purchasing a new garage door opener, use these tips—and a professional installer—to help you choose a model that fits your budget, wants, and needs.
Share18 July 2016
