A binder composition of a phenolic novolac resin and a (lower) alkoxylated triazine-formaldehyde resin curing agent is disclosed. The triazine resins have sufficient carbon atoms in the alkoxy groups so as to provide a curing agent having a water solubility of less than 15%. The binder cures at high temperatures so as to provide improved flow and prolonged workability to the composition. The compositions are useful in refractory applications having a need for high temperature curing agents such as for maintenance and repair within refractory vessels by gunning/spraying, manufacture of electrodes by the Soderberg method, and for use in blast furnace tap holes.