When it comes time to choose your overhead door opener, you’ll want to consider so many factors. Safety, security, ease of use, quiet operation… what’s right for you? Today, let’s take a closer look at what you need to know before buying a door opener.
Clarify your needs
First, list all of your needs. If you have an attached garage, for example, a quiet door opener may be your first priority. If you park in your garage, accessories like remotes and laser parking assist might be most important. For those with young children, enhanced safety accessories like keyless entry and safety cameras likely top the list. If you’re not sure where to start, ask one of our experts! We will happily show you our wide range of options.
Measure – will it fit?
Today’s overhead door openers don’t take up much room, but there are still minimum space requirements. For a trolley-type door opener, measure the available room above your garage door. If you have at least two inches of headroom, we will be able to install your overhead door opener. If you don’t have enough room above your door, please contact us. We will help you find a solution.
Cathedral ceilings
Customers often ask us if it’s possible to install an overhead door and opener when the garage has a cathedral ceiling. Yes it is! Trolley door openers can be used, even with cathedral‑style garage ceilings. However, in this situation, we often recommend a different style of opener called a jackshaft. These side‑mounted openers are installed beside a garage door instead of above it. Jackshaft openers can be installed as long as there is at least 3 inches of space above the door, and 8 inches of wall space beside it. Best of all, side‑mounted openers still come equipped with all of the important safety mechanisms like photo‑cell safety beams and door reversal systems.
Different types of door openers
There are 3 styles of door openers on the market:
Jackshaft: useful opener for high or cathedral‑style garage ceilings.
Chain drive: trolley‑style opener that is low‑cost and widely available.
Belt drive: also a trolley‑style opener, but is quieter than a chain drive unit.
For both belt and chain units, there are two distinctive construction styles for the trolley itself. We recommend the sturdier one‑piece trolleys when possible. We have found that the second style, the three‑piece trolley, requires annual maintenance to tighten the bolts which hold the trolley pieces together.
How much horsepower does my door opener need?
Motor horsepower depends on a few factors. When buying an opener, our experts will help you choose the correct horsepower based on the size and weight of your overhead door. Most of our customers need either a ½ or ¾ horsepower motor. A ½ horsepower motor is generally strong enough for lightweight single or double garage doors. Solid wood, oversize and heavy doors usually require a ¾ horsepower motor.
Most overhead door openers run on direct current (DC) power, and come in 1⁄3, ½ or ¾ horsepower. Certain models are available in alternating current (AC), for which motor strength is in found in newtons (N).
Technology and Accessories
Today’s fast‑paced innovation can even be seen in the door opener industry. The latest openers come with a wide range of accessories, from remote controls to camera monitors to solar panels. And safety features haven’t been left behind. All door openers are now outfitted with two safety systems: a photo‑cell safety beam and a mechanical reversal system.
Another great improvement in door opener technology is the introduction of Wi‑Fi enabled options. LiftMaster – the best‑selling brand of door openers in North America – has introduced the MyQ app. This app lets you use your smartphone to monitor the status of your garage door. You can even open and close your door remotely!
For all of your overhead door needs, contact us! Use our online form or call us at 519-829-3777 to schedule a service call. Not sure which overhead door looks best on your home? Upload a picture to our online Design Centre to try out different door styles and colors. When you find a look you love, simply request a free, no obligation quote. Our service team is standing by to help you design the perfect overhead door system.
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