Looking for a space-saving solution for your garage door system? A side mount garage door opener might be just what you need. Also known as side mounted garage door openers or jackshaft openers, these systems are installed on the wall beside your garage door rather than on the ceiling. They’re sleek, quiet, and perfect for garages where ceiling space is limited.
A side mount garage door opener is a motorized unit mounted on the wall near the garage door shaft. Unlike traditional openers that hang from the ceiling and use a rail and chain or belt drive, side mounted garage door openers connect directly to the torsion bar to lift the door.
These systems are usually installed on either the right or left side of the garage door, depending on where the torsion bar is located. The result? A cleaner, more open ceiling with less noise and vibration.
Why Choose a Side Mounted Garage Door Opener?
Here’s why many homeowners are choosing side mount garage door openers:
- Maximizes Overhead Space: Great for garages with low ceilings, car lifts, or storage racks.
- Quiet Operation: These openers operate more quietly than traditional ceiling models.
- Sleek Appearance: With no bulky motor or rail system overhead, your garage looks cleaner and more modern.
- Enhanced Security: Most side mount openers come with automatic deadbolt locks for extra protection.
- Smart Features: Many models come with Wi-Fi capability, smartphone control, and battery backup.
Side mount garage door openers work by connecting directly to the torsion bar. When activated, the motor turns the bar, which lifts the door. No chains or belts required.
This setup reduces the number of moving parts, lowering the risk of breakdowns and minimizing maintenance. Plus, these openers are known for being reliable over the long haul, thanks to their simplified design.
While side mounted garage door openers have a lot of benefits, they aren’t the right fit for every garage. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Torsion Spring Required: Your garage door must have a torsion spring system. If it uses extension springs, it will need to be converted.
- Minimum Side Clearance: You’ll need at least 8-12 inches of space on the side of your door.
- Standard Height Doors Work Best: Most side mount units are designed for standard height (7 or 8 feet) garage doors.
- Weight Limits: Extra-heavy or custom doors may require a more powerful unit or a different type of opener altogether.
Pros:
- Saves ceiling space
- Quiet operation
- Modern and minimal look
- Smart control options
- Great for garages with high ceilings or storage needs
Cons:
- Higher cost than standard openers
- May require spring conversion
- Not ideal for very heavy or high-lift doors
- Requires professional installation
Best Uses for Side Mount Garage Door Openers
These openers are perfect for:
- Garages with loft storage
- Workshops with lighting or ductwork on the ceiling
- Homeowners who want a modern, streamlined look
- Garages with car lifts
- Detached garages where aesthetics matter
- Home gyms or hobby spaces that benefit from extra headroom
Installing a side mount garage door opener isn’t a typical DIY job. Because these openers work directly with the torsion system, they need professional setup to ensure safety and performance.
Torsion springs are under extreme tension and can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. That’s why it’s always best to let trained technicians handle the installation. At Overhead Door Company of Puget Sound, we make the whole process easy, safe, and smooth.
Want it done right? Contact Overhead Door Company of Puget Sound. We’ll handle everything—fast, safe, and clean.
Just like any piece of machinery, side mounted garage door openers need occasional care to keep running smoothly. Here are some simple tips:
- Lubricate the Torsion System: Apply garage door lubricant to the torsion bar and springs at least twice a year.
- Check Mounting Bolts: Make sure the motor is securely attached to the wall.
- Keep Photo Eyes Clean and Aligned: These sensors ensure safe operation. Clean them gently and check alignment.
- Test Auto-Reverse Monthly: Place a small object in the door’s path. If it doesn’t reverse, call for service.
- Listen for Strange Noises: New grinding or popping sounds could be a sign something’s off.
Need help with maintenance? Give us a call!
Energy Efficiency and Smart Tech
Side mounted garage door openers often come with modern upgrades like LED lighting, Wi-Fi integration, and energy-saving standby modes. Some models even sync with smart home systems like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
These features give you peace of mind and convenience. Imagine checking whether your door is closed from your phone—or setting it to close automatically every night.
Here are a few of the most trusted brands that offer high-quality side mount options:
- LiftMaster 8500W: Wi-Fi enabled, battery backup, and automatic lock.
- Genie Wall Mount Series: Reliable, quiet, and great for smart home setups.
- Chamberlain RJO70: Sleek design with advanced diagnostics and alerts.
We can install all these brands and more. Ask us what model is best for your garage door!
Let’s break it down:
Feature | Side Mount Opener | Traditional Opener |
Location | Mounted on wall | Hangs from ceiling |
Ceiling Space Needed | Minimal | Significant |
Noise Level | Low | Moderate to High |
Maintenance | Lower | Higher due to more parts |
Cost | Higher | Lower |
Appearance | Clean and modern | More industrial |
If space, noise, or appearance matters to you—side mount wins the match.
What is the benefit of a side mount garage door opener?
It frees up ceiling space, runs quietly, and has a clean, modern design. Many models also include smart features and extra security.
Can I use a side mount garage door opener?
Yes, if your garage door uses a torsion spring and you have 8–12 inches of space beside the door.
How much room is needed for a side mount garage door opener?
At least 8 to 12 inches of side clearance is needed for proper installation.
Should I get 1/2 hp or 3/4 hp garage door opener?
A 3/4 HP opener is better for heavier or insulated doors and offers more durability than a 1/2 HP option.
Overhead Door Company of Puget Sound is your local expert. We’ve helped countless homeowners modernize their garage—and we’re ready to help you too.
Get more headroom, a quieter opener, and a sleeker garage today—upgrade to a side mount garage door opener!
Call Overhead Door Company of Puget Sound at (253) 400-3880 now!
