The Pros & Cons of Jackshaft/Side Mount Electric Garage Door Openers
Jackshaft openers, more commonly known as a side mount garage door opener, are an increasingly popular choice for residential garages in Toronto. Unlike traditional trolley systems that hang from the center of the ceiling, these units are installed on the wall beside the garage door. This design shift offers unique benefits, particularly for homeowners looking to maximize their vertical space.
If you are considering a new garage door opener, here is everything you need to know about the side mount option.
The Pros of a Side Mount Garage Door Opener
1. Significant Space Savings
The most obvious benefit of a side mount garage door opener is the removal of the overhead rail and motor.
Clear Ceilings: Without a boom hanging down the center of the garage, you have more room for overhead storage racks or even a car lift.
Minimal Wiring: Because the unit sits directly beside the door, the wiring requirements are often simpler and less intrusive.
2. Compatibility with High Lift Doors
A side mount garage door opener is the only reliable choice for “high lift” garage doors. If your tracks run vertically toward a high ceiling, a traditional trolley cannot follow that path. This setup is ideal for homeowners who want to fully utilize their garage’s height.
3. Improved Aesthetics and Stability
In garages with exceptionally high ceilings, traditional openers require long, unsightly metal hangers. These hangers can flex and vibrate, leading to a noisy and unstable operation. A side-mounted unit eliminates this problem, providing a cleaner look and a more rigid installation.
The Cons of a Side Mount Garage Door Opener
1. Higher Initial Cost
A side mount garage door opener is generally more expensive than a standard chain or belt drive opener. While the performance and space-saving benefits are high, the upfront investment is greater.
2. Side Room Requirements
These units require specific clearance to fit beside the door. Typically, you need approximately 12 inches of side room between the door tracks and the nearest wall. While experienced installers can sometimes work with slightly less, this measurement is the industry standard for a safe installation.
3. Professional Installation is Required
Because these units mount directly to the torsion bar, the installation is more complex than a standard DIY trolley project. To ensure the safety sensors and cable tension are perfectly balanced, you should always hire a reputable garage door company for the job.
Modern Features for Modern Homes
Most modern side mount units, such as the LiftMaster series, are fully Wi-Fi enabled. This allows you to monitor and control your door from your smartphone. They use the same reliable remotes and digital keypads as traditional openers, ensuring a seamless transition.
Is a side mount opener right for your garage? Contact Dodds Doors today at 1-877-503-6337 for a professional consultation. We will assess your garage’s clearance and help you find a flexible solution that maximizes your space.