When it’s time to replace your garage door opener, you realize there are some options to take into consideration. If you can’t decide on a wall mount or an overhead garage door opener, this article will help you decide which one will be best for you and your home.
Garage Overhead Openers
An overhead garage door, also known as a ceiling mount, uses a motorized operating system mounted on the ceiling. The rail track and lift will open and close your garage door with either a belt, chain or screw-drive mechanism.
Here are the pros:
- Cost-effective: Compared to wall-mounted openers, these are much more cost-effective to install, repair, and maintain.
- Quieter operations: The old models may be pretty noisy, but noise should not be a concern with improved mechanical processes. For example, while belt drive openers are considered the quietest option, chain and screw-drive machines are much quieter than in the past due to a DC motor for quieter operations and minimal disruption.
- Reliable mechanisms: Its efficient design allows it to lift heavier garage doors, whereas many wall mount openers have a weight limit. This will allow a wider variety of garage door styles if you decide you need a replacement down the road.
Ceiling mount cons:
- Not space-efficient: An overhead garage door opener will take up space in your ceiling, potentially depriving you of space for tall vehicles or storage areas.
- Less secure: These usually contain emergency release cords that you can pull to detach the door from the opener, making it possible to manually lift the door during emergencies. While this is convenient, it is possible to trigger it by accident or from the outside, possibly leading to serious damage or injury or unwanted home invaders.
Wall Mount Garage Opener
A wall mount, also known as a side mount or jackshaft opener, is typically found on either side of your garage door. This type of system is connected to and relies on the torsion bar to operate the garage door.
The pros of wall mount:
- Space-savers: Overhead garage doors require a significant amount of ceiling space – at least 48 inches- and many homeowners can’t afford to lose that much space in their garages. This will lead to a clean, uncluttered look in your garage.
- Easier installation and maintenance: This style is common in garages with high, sloped, or irregularly shaped ceilings for both easier installation and maintenance since they’re lower and more accessible.
The cons for a wall mount:
- Limited garage door options: Since the side-mount style makes the door move from a lower point, these openers can’t lift heavy doors, and they require substantial headroom to operate correctly.
These are some options to consider when choosing a new or replacement for your garage door opener. It would be wise to consult a professional to help you make the right choice for your home.