Centaur HTPs® Frequently Asked Questions

How is Centaur HTP® fencing made?

Our proprietary fencing product is a flexible High Tensile Polymer(HTP) material that is a blend of impact modifiers, UV stabilizers, and anti-fungicides. Formulated for strength, durability and appearance under any temperature and climatic conditions, HTP® fencing material is color-fast, stain resistant and mildew resistant.

Centaur HTP® withstands temperature conditions from -40°F to 200°F without becoming brittle or experiencing any kind of polymer breakdown.

Centaur HTP® is mechanically bonded* to a steel wire or wires(see Centaur Products for details). Mechanical bonding means that the wire and polymer are joined during manufacture. As the polymer is cooled, it shrinks tightly around the wires. This creates a natural link between wire and polymer, while allowing each to expand and contract in temperature changes without pulling and degrading the polymer.

*A mechanically bonded fence will last much longer than a molecularly bonded fence. A molecular bond occurs when another chemical, a glue, is introduced to fuse the wire and polymer together. When temperature changes occur between the molecularly bonded wire and polymer, the wire will pull and weaken or tear the polymer.

Can I install Centaur HTP® fencing products myself?

Yes, we send a detailed fence installation manual with every shipment, and provide technical assistance over the telephone. Following the installation manual will ensure warranty certification upon completion.

If I don't want to install the fence myself, are there Centaur installers in my area?

Centaur has a network of professional installers throughout the United States. We can recommend upon request.

What kind of fence posts do I use?

We recommend CCA-treated or Creosote Southern Yellow Pine. These fence posts are strong and will add to the safety of the fencing. Typical: Corner/End Post 6" - 8" x 8', Line Post 4" - 5" x 8'.

What are the recommended heights for your fence?

We recommend 55” - 56" as the standard post height on level terrain for horse fencing.

How much space should I allow between fence posts?

It depends on the lay of your land and the breed of horse you plan to contain. For level to gentle terrain 12' spacing can be utilized. As the terrain is more severe or curving you should consider closer spacing of 10' or 8 '. Keep in mind with closer spacing you will increase the strength of your fence.

What type of post spacing and bracing do you recommend for a round pen?

This is best determined by the diameter of your pen. With a larger diameter the wider spacing can be utilized, but keep in mind with closer spacing you will increase the strength of your pen. Note: All posts must be concreted and a length of 8'.

Should I mount the rail on the inside or outside of the posts?

It's your choice. Inside applications: by utilizing a 3.5" ring shank nail or a 3" Decking Screw the rail and brackets will hold firmly to the posts. But before you choose, consider this: placing the rail on the inside of the fence denies horses access to the fence posts, is the strongest method of installation, and is recommended to provide optimal safety performance. Outside applications: However, rails on the outside of the fence often look better.

What is the recommended number of Rails or Coated Single Wires to be installed?

For our Centaur HTP® or CenFlex™ Rail you can choose 3 or 4 rails. For Coated Single Wires, PolyPlus® or White Lightning®, we recommend a minimum of 5 strands, or you may choose a combination of both.

What is the recommended space between rails and space between the ground and the first rail?

We recommend that you space the rails 9" - 11". 11” is the maximum amount of recommended spacing between rails for optimal safety performance. For 4 Rail Fences, we suggest using these measurements (from the ground up to bottom of rails): 10", 23", 36", 49". For 3 Rail Fences, we suggest using these measurements (from the ground up to the bottom of rails): 18", 33", 48". These suggestions will give you a rail no lower than 10" and a height of 54". We do not recommend a rail any lower than 10" from ground level.

How many tension assembly kits do I need to install with my fence?

A single tension assembly will handle 660' of level ground. A double tension assembly will handle 660' of level ground each direction for a total of 1,320'. We recommend you subtract 200' for every directional or severe elevation change.

Is Centaur HTP® fencing safe for foals?

Absolutely. However we recommend you install posts at 8' intervals to allow less gap if animals come into contact with rails. The closer post spacing will reduce the amount of flex.

Will my horse chew the rail?

Most horses do not like to chew on polymer fencing as it's not palatable to them. If you have a concern your animals will chew or crib, then consider using our Hot-Rail® product.

What does my Centaur HTP® limited warranty cover?

It covers all manufacturer's defects. This includes cracking, peeling, and chipping due to adverse weather. Abuse to the fence or natural disasters are not covered.