Build better hardscapes with expert-led technical education at Hardscape North America

Great hardscapes require the right techniques, the right materials and the knowledge to adapt as products, technologies and customer expectations evolve.

This October, Hardscape North America (HNA) will bring together industry experts to share practical installation techniques and real-world solutions that contractors can take directly to the jobsite. From fire features and natural stone to retaining walls and permeable pavements, HNA's technical education helps contractors build smarter, avoid costly mistakes and deliver exceptional outdoor spaces, while increasing their bottom line.

"One of the greatest values of HNA is learning directly from professionals who have spent years solving the same challenges contractors face every day," said Bob Thomas, President & CEO of the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA), which produces HNA. "These sessions go beyond theory. They're built around practical experience, proven techniques and lessons that can immediately improve the quality and profitability of projects."

HNA’s technical education highlights include:

• Fire Features That Sell: In Gas Fire Features: How to Boost Your Bottom Line Without Getting Burned, Bill Hylton provides guidance on designing, installing and selling gas fire pits, fireplaces and fire-and-water features.
• Designing with Natural Stone: Presented by the Natural Stone Institute, Reid Johnston and Dacia Woodworth will lead Create Stunning Outdoor Living Spaces Using Natural Stone, exploring how natural stone can enhance outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, water features and seating areas.
• Building Better Retaining Walls: Ryan Miller's Best Practices for Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Design and Construction draws on more than 30 years of research and field experience, providing practical guidance, from planning and design through installation and finishing details.
• Creating Recurring Revenue with PICP Maintenance: Fred Adams and Bryan Horr, P.E., will demonstrate how proper maintenance of Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements can protect long-term performance while creating profitable service opportunities.
• Mortar Technology for Manufactured Stone Veneer: In Understanding Mortar Technology for Compliant Installations of Adhered Manufactured Stone Veneer (MSV), Lee Tindall explains how to select the right mortar for adhered manufactured stone and thin-brick veneer installations, covering industry standards and best practices for mixing and application to achieve durable, high-quality results.
• Building from the Ground Up: Renee Redding's The "Invisible" Foundation: Precision Sub-grade and Aggregate Prep for High-End Boutique Projects focuses on the critical groundwork behind successful hardscape installations. Attendees will learn techniques for sub-grade preparation, aggregate selection and base stabilization to prevent settlement and create long-lasting, high-end paver projects.

Learning extends beyond the classroom with six interactive Hardscape Demos presented by Local Roots Landscaping. Experienced installation professionals demonstrate proven techniques for retaining walls, paver installations, outdoor kitchens, lighting, water and fire features and digital tools that help contractors improve productivity and profitability.

Adding to the Hardscape Demo experience, Local Roots Landscaping will host a cookout following the final demo on Friday morning to celebrate the birthday of Patrick Murray, one of Local Roots’ owners. Attendees who purchase the Hardscape Demo upgrade or a VIP Pass are invited to join the celebration.

Contractors looking to expand their technical expertise can also earn industry-recognized credentials through CMHA Installer Courses, offered October 20-21 at the Hyatt Regency Louisville. Led by Certified Installers, these courses combine classroom instruction, official CMHA training materials and an optional certification exam to help participants build skills and demonstrate their expertise.

Whether refining existing skills or expanding service offerings, attendees will leave with practical knowledge they can apply immediately.

Education takes place October 21-23 during Hardscape North America in Louisville, Kentucky. Attendees can add education when registering or return to their registration dashboard at any time.

For those looking to maximize their educational experience, the HNA VIP Pass offers exceptional value. Gain access to 17 education sessions, six Hardscape Demos, two Hardscape Workshops and one complimentary industry session featuring Caleb and Brittany Auman – all while saving more than 50% compared to purchasing sessions individually.

Register to attend HNA

Trade show registration is $30 through September 3, 2026. Registration at the show is $120*. HNA’s co-location with Equip Expo offers attendees access to both shows with one badge and more than 1,000 total exhibits, expansive outdoor demo areas and unmatched networking opportunities. Register today at HardscapeNA.com.

HNA is produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) and is endorsed by the Brick Industry Association (BIA) and Natural Stone Institute (NSI). Platinum sponsor: Belgard. Gold sponsors: iQ Power Tools, Landmark Ceramics and Nicolock. Silver sponsor: Keystone Hardscapes. Bronze sponsor: Range Outdoor Living.

About Hardscape North America

Hardscape North America (HNA) is THE hardscape show for contractors and dealers/distributors. Its focus is to bring top-notch education including certification courses, products and technology to contractors and installers who build segmental pavements and retaining walls and to provide networking opportunities. HNA features indoor and outdoor exhibits displaying state-of-the-art tools and products and trade show floor demonstrations and offers the latest technology for contractors and dealers. To learn more about HNA, visit HardscapeNA.com or call (888) 580-9960. The show is produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association and co-located with Equip Exposition.

About CMHA

The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) represents the manufacturers, suppliers and professionals behind concrete masonry, segmental concrete pavements, manufactured stone veneer, segmental retaining walls and other hardscape systems across the US and Canada. CMHA serves as a central resource for the industry, supporting its members through education, technical guidance, research, advocacy, industry expertise and collaboration. For more information, visit CMHA.org.