5 Best Refractory Cement for Forge in 2020
For the DIY people, refractory cement is a handy tool in their arsenal. It is used to line up the sides of fireplaces, fill up cracks and set up new fireplaces. You cannot use ordinary cement for this purpose because of extremely high burning temperatures inside the fireplaces. Refractory cement can tolerate temperatures above 2000°F; it is the minimum temperature a fireplace usually reaches.
In this review, we are going to discuss the 5 best refractory types of cement available in the market. We have done considerable research on refractory cement and then included the best ones on our list. We have also included a buying guide to help you make the right purchase decision.
Best 5 Refractory Cements
1. MEECO’S RED DEVIL 610 Refractory Cement – Indoor Use Only
At the top of our list, we have Meeco’s Red Devil Refractory cement, which can tolerate a maximum of 3000°F. It comes pre-mixed with fiber-reinforced, high-temperature silicon mortar. After using this cement, you will never have to worry about the internal sides of the fireplace ever again. The temperature limit is most versatile as almost all the fireplaces cannot reach a temperature of more than 3000°F. You can use this mortar for repairing, setting, and coating the fire bricks. It comes in a packing of ½ gallon and is buff-colored. It is to be used only for indoor fireplaces. It is an excellent cement to be used for thicker joints.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
The temperature range is excellent. The only limitation is that it is to be used for indoor purposes. We recommend this cement for all the indoor fireplace works.
2. Rutland 12.5 lbs Tub Castable Cement – Mix With Water (Fire Clay) 2200 degree
With a temperature rating of 2200°F, it can easily fix large masonry holes, cracks, and creeks in your fireplaces or stoves. The good thing about this cement is that it can be used for both outdoor and indoor purposes. This increases the versatility of the cement and increases its usability as well. You do not need to purchase separate cement for outdoor and indoor purposes. Another excellent feature of this cement is that it does not need heat cure as a final touch. It has excellent molding properties so that you can mold it according to your design. 25 pounds of cement can cast a 12″ x 12″ x 3″ block. This measurement can help you in assessing the total quantity you need for a particular project.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
It has less temperature tolerance, but it is suitable for indoor and outdoor purposes. It is a versatile cement with good molding options.
3. Rutland 610 Refractory Cement, 64 Fl Oz
The Rutland refractory cement is for indoor use and can withstand 2000°F. It comes in ready to use pre-mixed cement sticks to fill in gaps or set up fireplaces. The cement needs a minimum of 500°F heat for curing. It comes in a buff color. It is perfect for filling in joints less than ¼ inches thick. You can use this cement for filling up broken firebricks in stoves, fireplaces, and furnaces. It comes with a warranty of 18 months.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
Rutland has produced quality refractory cement for indoor use. You can use this cement for forge without any worries.
4. Hellcote 3000 Refractory Cement for Ceramic Fiber Blankets to be Used on Any Brand Including All Hell’s Forge Brand Propane Forge Units – 5 lbs
It has been designed especially for Hell’s forge propane forges and can withstand the temperature of 3000°F. It is also perfect to be used with other brands as well. It helps in protecting the life of ceramic fiber blanket by providing a long-lasting protective coating. It comes pre-mixed and ready to use; you do not need to mix it before using it. All you need to do is to mix it with water and then apply and let t dry. It comes in a packing of 5 lbs. It is particularly great for filling in the cracks and is not recommended for setting up new fireplaces.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
It has an excellent temperature range and is easy to use refractory cement. The coating produced is durable and is perfect to be used for filling cracks.
5. Cement Refractory 3lb Buff
If you are looking for asbestos-free refractory cement, then here is one of your best picks. It is perfect for repairing and setting up fireplaces and working with firebricks. The maximum temperature limit is 2200°F. It is slightly less than the limits mentioned above but is still good for all the firebricks. It is smooth refractory cement and can be cast or molded into desired customized shapes. It comes in a pack of 3 lbs. and has a buff color. It is granular and not powdered.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
If you want to fill thin cracks, it won’t do the trick for you. It is particularly good for thicker cracks.
MEECO’S RED DEVIL 610 Refractory Cement – Indoor Use Only
Conclusion
We have listed the best cement for you. We hope that your selection is now pretty much easy. We suggest that you select the cement which is best suited for you. Make sure that you select a bit more quantity than you need because it is better to have something in excess than to stop the work and re-order.
Buying Guide
Temperature Tolerance
Look for refractory cement, which has a maximum temperature tolerance limit. Anything above 2000 or 2200°F is suitable for a fireplace.
Usability
It is better to buy the cement, which is ideal for the type of project on which you are working. For example, if you are repairing your fireplace, choose the one which is specially designed for this.
Molding Properties
Excellent cement will be easy to shape and mold into your desired shape. High-quality cement helps create custom and unique fireplaces with innovative designs.
Size
Another thing to keep in mind is to select the appropriate size and order the required amount. We are highlighting this point because we don’t want you to end up with less cement and stop your work in between.
