Attendees can add education when registering for HNA or return to their registration dashboard to add sessions at any time.

Success in today’s hardscape industry requires more than installation expertise. Business growth depends on strong leadership, effective marketing, sound financial decisions and strategic planning. To help contractors strengthen those skills, Hardscape North America (HNA) will offer a series of business-focused education sessions October 21-22, featuring industry leaders who understand the challenges contractors face every day.

“These sessions are designed to give contractors practical ideas they can take home and put to work immediately,” said Bob Thomas, president & CEO of the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA), which produces HNA. “Whether the goal is increasing profitability, improving operations, strengthening leadership or finding new ways to market a business, attendees will gain real-world strategies from professionals who have built successful companies and helped others do the same.”

This year's business-focused education lineup includes:

• Profitability & operations: Anthony Bango’s Improving Hardscape Margins By Utilizing Technology – How Prefabricated GFRC Is Changing Everything explores how prefabricated Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete products can reduce labor demands, shorten installation times and improve project margins. Bryan Horr, P.E., will lead the popular Contractor Roundtable, giving attendees the opportunity to discuss real-world challenges and solutions with fellow contractors.
• Design & sales: George Urvari will present Design for Profit: Make Beautiful Spaces Profitable and Estimating Mastery: Have Your Estimate Sell Itself, sharing strategies for creating profitable designs, improving buildability and developing proposals that communicate value and help close more sales.
• Marketing & AI: Oliver Bridgeman will help contractors make smarter marketing decisions through Stop Guessing Your Marketing Budget: A Data-Driven Workshop and Everyday AI for Marketing: A Practical Workshop for Hardscape Industry Professionals. These sessions focus on building realistic marketing budgets, understanding performance metrics and using AI tools to improve efficiency and results.
• Leadership & growth: Doug Buma’s Vision in Motion: Strategic Planning for a Constantly Evolving Industry provides a framework for aligning daily activities with long-term business goals, while Joseph Raboine’s workshop, The New Outdoor Living Economy: How to Prosper in Fluctuating Market Conditions, explores emerging trends and opportunities shaping the future of outdoor living.

Together, these sessions provide practical tools to help contractors improve profitability, strengthen leadership, make smarter business decisions and position their companies for future growth.

For attendees looking to maximize their learning experience, the VIP Pass offers exceptional value, providing access to 17 education sessions, six hardscape demos, two hardscape workshops and one free industry session. The VIP Pass saves attendees more than 50% compared to purchasing individual education sessions.

Attendees can add education when registering for HNA or return to their registration dashboard to add sessions at any time. For more information and to explore the full education lineup, visit HardcapeNA.com/education.

Pre-show installer courses

In addition to the education sessions during the show, CMHA Installer Courses will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday prior to HNA, offering training and certification opportunities for Concrete Paver Installer, Segmental Retaining Wall Installer, Permeable Interlocking Concrete Paver (PICP) Specialist and Advanced SRW Installer programs.

Register to attend HNA

Trade show registration is only $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, extensive 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). Gold sponsor: Landmark Ceramics. Silver sponsor: Keystone Hardscapes.

*Registration for non-exhibiting vendors, manufacturers, suppliers, ad agencies, consultants and media sales is $450.

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) is the authority for segmental concrete products and systems, which are the best value and preferred choice for resilient pavement, structures and living spaces. CMHA promotes the acceptance and use of segmental concrete products and systems in the United States and Canada. For more information, visit CMHA.org.

Entries to the 2026 HNA Awards will be accepted through August 5, 2026. 

The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) is excited to announce that entries are now open for the 2026 Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards, the industry’s premier program recognizing outstanding hardscape design, craftsmanship and innovation.

The annual HNA Awards continues CMHA’s tradition of celebrating excellence in residential and commercial hardscape applications, including walkways, patios, pool decks, outdoor living spaces, driveways, commercial plazas, streetscapes and more. From creative design solutions to exceptional installation techniques, the program highlights the projects that are shaping the future of hardscapes across North America.

Entries to the 2026 HNA Awards will be accepted through August 5, 2026. 

Award winners will be honored during the HNA Awards Ceremony on October 22, 2026 at the Kentucky Exposition Center as part of the HNA trade show, taking place October 21–23 in Louisville, Kentucky.

"The HNA Awards showcase the very best our industry has to offer," said CMHA president Robert Thomas. "Every year, we’re inspired by the creativity, precision and innovation demonstrated in these projects. From bold outdoor living spaces to complex commercial installations, the entries reflect how hardscape professionals are transforming outdoor environments and raising the bar for excellence. We’re excited to see the remarkable work submitted this year."

Eligible submissions for the 2026 HNA Awards include projects across nine categories that highlight the range of the hardscape industry:

2026 HNA Awards categories:

• Segmental Concrete Pavement
• Clay Brick Pavement
• Porcelain Paver Pavement
• Retaining Walls
• Adhered Thin Veneers
• Combination of Hardscape Products
• Natural Stone Pavement
• Outdoor Living Features
• Vintage Installation

Each entry will be evaluated by a panel of industry experts based on design excellence, quality of construction, craftsmanship, compatibility with related materials and systems, and achievement of project objectives.

The HNA Awards are produced by CMHA and endorsed by the Brick Industry Association (BIA) and the Natural Stone Institute (NSI).

For complete entry guidelines, submission requirements and to learn more about the 2025 HNA Awards competition, visit HardscapeNA.com/schedule/hna-awards/

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 also to provide networking opportunities. HNA features indoor and outdoor exhibits displaying state-of-the-art tools and products and tradeshow floor demonstrations and offers the latest technology for contractors. Hardscape North America is produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association and endorsed by the Brick Industry Association and Natural Stone Institute. To learn more about HNA, visit HardscapeNA.com.

About CMHA

The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association is a trade association representing U.S. and Canadian producers and suppliers in the concrete masonry and hardscape industry, as well as contractors of interlocking concrete pavement and segmental retaining walls. CMHA represents a unification of the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) and National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), uniting the concrete masonry and hardscapes industry for a better tomorrow. For more information, visit cmha.org.

The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) is excited to announce that entries are now open for the 2026 Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards, the industry’s premier program recognizing outstanding hardscape design, craftsmanship, and innovation.

The annual HNA Awards continues CMHA’s tradition of celebrating excellence in residential and commercial hardscape applications, including walkways, patios, pool decks, outdoor living spaces, driveways, commercial plazas, streetscapes, and more. From creative design solutions to exceptional installation techniques, the program highlights the projects that are shaping the future of hardscapes across North America.

Entries to the 2026 HNA Awards will be accepted through August 5, 2026.  

Award winners will be honored during the HNA Awards Ceremony on October 22, 2026 at the Kentucky Exposition Center as part of the HNA trade show, taking place October 21–23 in Louisville, Kentucky.

"The HNA Awards showcase the very best our industry has to offer," said CMHA President Robert Thomas. "Every year, we’re inspired by the creativity, precision, and innovation demonstrated in these projects. From bold outdoor living spaces to complex commercial installations, the entries reflect how hardscape professionals are transforming outdoor environments and raising the bar for excellence. We’re excited to see the remarkable work submitted this year."

Eligible submissions for the 2026 HNA Awards include projects across nine categories that highlight the range of the hardscape industry:

2026 HNA Awards Categories:

• Segmental Concrete Pavement
• Clay Brick Pavement
• Porcelain Paver Pavement
• Retaining Walls
• Adhered Thin Veneers
• Combination of Hardscape Products
• Natural Stone Pavement
• Outdoor Living Features
• Vintage Installation

Each entry will be evaluated by a panel of industry experts based on design excellence, quality of construction, craftsmanship, compatibility with related materials and systems, and achievement of project objectives.
 
The HNA Awards are produced by CMHA and endorsed by the Brick Industry Association (BIA) and the Natural Stone Institute (NSI).
 
For complete entry guidelines, submission requirements, and to learn more about the 2025 HNA Awards competition, visit HardscapeNA.com/schedule/hna-awards/

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 also to provide networking opportunities. HNA features indoor and outdoor exhibits displaying state-of-the-art tools and products and tradeshow floor demonstrations and offers the latest technology for contractors. Hardscape North America is produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association and endorsed by the Brick Industry Association and Natural Stone Institute. To learn more about HNA, visit HardscapeNA.com.

About CMHA

The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association is a trade association representing U.S. and Canadian producers and suppliers in the concrete masonry and hardscape industry, as well as contractors of interlocking concrete pavement and segmental retaining walls. CMHA represents a unification of the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) and National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), uniting the concrete masonry and hardscapes industry for a better tomorrow. For more information, visit cmha.org. 

Register for Hardscape North America for just $25 through May 31 and save 20% on CMHA Edge online training.

Hardscape North America (HNA) will once again offer the opportunity for contractors and crews to strengthen their skills and earn industry-recognized credentials. The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) Installer Courses return October 20-21 and will be led by expert instructors with years of industry experience.

Designed with real-world application in mind, these courses support those entering the hardscaping field as well as seasoned professionals looking to refine their expertise. Each course includes official CMHA materials and concludes with a certification exam — all covered in the registration fee.

“The installer certification courses are well worth the time and money. My entire crew participated in the courses this year so they can be the best hardscape installers in our area,” said 2025 attendee Daniel Bradshaw, owner of Riverside Custom Outdoors in Goochland, Virginia.

Course schedule

Tuesday, October 20 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Concrete Paver Installer (CPI) Course & Exam; Instructor: Dan Hughes
• Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Installer Course & Exam; Instructor: James Motarex

Wednesday, October 21 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Permeable Interlocking Concrete Paver (PICP) Specialist Course & Exam; Instructor: Renee Redding
• Advanced Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Installer Course & Exam; Instructor: John Linder

A smart investment

Courses are priced at $400 for CMHA members and $500 for non-members. For many contractors, that cost pays for itself quickly through better installs, fewer callbacks and stronger credibility with clients.

Get started now with CMHA Edge

With the in-person courses taking place in October, professionals don’t have to wait to begin building their skills. Through CMHA Edge, CMHA offers on-demand courses that make it easy to start training now and continue learning at HNA this fall.

During the month of May, participants can save 20% on CMHA on-demand courses using the promo code MAYSAVE26.

All of CMHA’s training programs are designed to build technical expertise, strengthen field performance and support long-term career growth. From foundational knowledge to advanced techniques, these courses help professionals stay aligned with evolving industry standards and deliver high-quality results.

To learn more or register for in-person CMHA Installer Courses at HNA, visit hardscapena.com/installer-courses. Details and registration for on-demand courses are available at pathlms.com/cmha/courses. 

Register to attend HNA

Trade show registration is only $25 through May 31, 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, extensive 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).

*Registration for non-exhibiting vendors, manufacturers, suppliers, ad agencies, consultants and media sales is $450.

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) is the authority for segmental concrete products and systems, which are the best value and preferred choice for resilient pavement, structures and living spaces. CMHA promotes the acceptance and use of segmental concrete products and systems in the United States and Canada. For more information, visit CMHA.org.

Attending HNA’s annual show takes your hardscaping career to the next level. 

The Coffee Shops™, the award-winning online communities where the industries meet for technologies, safety, information and education for the construction trades of roofing, metal, coatings and outdoor living are pleased to welcome Hardscape North America (HNA) into their community. 

HNA is a premier national trade show produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) and endorsed by top industry bodies like the Brick Industry Association and Natural Stone Institute. Co-located with Equip Exposition, the combined events draw more than 29,500 hardscape and landscape industry leaders, including contractors, designers, dealers and suppliers, together in Louisville, Kentucky every year!  

The show features a 42,000 square foot Hardscape House with access to more than 30 acres of outdoor demo space across the co-located events. Over three power-packed days, attendees can gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools from more than 1,000 exhibits and learn from 30+ expert-led education sessions and demos. And these incredible opportunities to enhance their skills are just the start of everything that HNA has to offer!  

HNA offers multiple opportunities for attendees to connect with peers and industry leaders, including the high-energy Installer Championship and the HNA Awards Ceremony, which honors outstanding residential and commercial hardscaping projects from the past year. Attendees can also take part in additional networking and entertainment events held in conjunction with the co-located show, such as a welcome reception, keynote address, concert and block party – all open to HNA participants. 

Whether you’re looking to discover new products, sharpen your skills or network with the best in the business, HNA is a must-attend event.   

The Coffee Shops are proud to welcome Hardscape North America (HNA)!

About Hardscape North America (HNA) 

Hardscape North America (HNA) is the premier national trade show and education event for industry leaders, contractors, designers and suppliers. Co-located with Equip Exposition, HNA was built specifically for hardscape and landscape professionals. The show, which is hosted every October in Louisville, Kentucky, boasts three power-packed days full of expert-led education sessions, hands-on workshops, unsurpassed networking events, certification opportunities and more. Learn more at www.hardscapena.com.

Hardscape industry leader highlights design, bid and build solutions for contractors.

Belgard®, the leading hardscaping materials provider in North America, is showing in force to address questions, showcase products, install solutions and connect with contractors and dealers attending Hardscape North America, October 22–24, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky. The company will spotlight its latest tools, technologies and portfolio offerings that help contractors take outdoor living projects from vision to reality, delivering the outdoor spaces that today’s homeowners desire.

Belgard will showcase its comprehensive approach for contractors to design, bid and build, adding ease and profitability for our customers.

• Design with Belgard: Belgard’s award-winning product portfolio doesn’t just keep up with trends, they set the standard for what’s next from a limitless mix of patterns, textures and colors that give contractors the tools to bring a homeowner’s visions to life. Trends showcased in the booth include pattern play, modular small-space solutions, monochromatic paver designs, material mixing and warm nature-inspired tones.
• Bid with Belgard: Contractors have access to Belgard’s industry-leading tools, services and resources, making it easier than ever to create effective bids to win projects faster. Tools like Belgard Rooms feature a Rooms Planner style quiz to support customer inspiration and planning, pre-designed room templates and the ability to view projects in AR for a realistic preview of the finished project. For customizable design options, Belgard Design Studio delivers professional 3D rendered designs that create a realistic vision of the space, proven to increase close rates and homeowner satisfaction.
• Build with Belgard: Efficiency meets creativity through Belgard’s modular approach. Eight distinct paver lines are engineered in three-inch increments for streamlined installation and reduced waste. In addition, the Artforms modular panel system – recently recognized with a 2025 Yardzen Award for outstanding design – allows for infinite design possibilities, supporting applications ranging from benches to counters, planters and more.

“Quality and reliability have always been core tenets of Belgard, but today’s contractors need more than just great products,” says Tim Ortman, president at Americas Building Products, Belgard’s parent company. “From award-winning product design to cutting-edge digital tools, Belgard delivers solutions that support every phase of a project. Our role is to be a creative partner and business enabler, helping contractors win more work, streamline installations and elevate the homeowner experience. Together, we’re driving the hardscape and outdoor living industry forward by ensuring every contractor has what they need to compete, win and grow.”

At Hardscape North America, Belgard’s booth will feature three interactive zones where attendees can explore design trends, experiment with modularity and learn how becoming a Belgard Authorized Contractor can support their business growth through lead generation, training and marketing resources that help drive measurable revenue growth.

Press will hear from Belgard leadership during a press conference on Wednesday, October 22, at 1:30 p.m. at Booth #20038. During this time, Belgard experts will share upcoming trends in hardscaping and feature the latest product styles and program initiatives for contractors.

About Belgard®

Belgard, part of Oldcastle APG, offers a complete collection of paver and wall products for outdoor living spaces, walkways, driveways, parking areas and retaining walls. Available in a range of styles, premium Belgard products have been found in America’s finest homes and award-winning commercial and retail properties since 1995. For more information, visit Belgard.com or call 1-877-Belgard (235-4273).

About Oldcastle APG

Oldcastle® APG, a CRH Company, is North America’s leading provider of innovative outdoor living solutions that enable customers to Live Well Outside. The manufacturer’s portfolio of premier building products inspires endless possibilities while providing enduring outdoor spaces where people can connect, reflect and recharge. Award-winning brands include Belgard® hardscapes, Echelon® Masonry, MoistureShield® composite decking, RDI® Railing, Catalyst™ Fence Solutions, Sakrete® packaged concrete, Amerimix® mortar, Pebble Technology International® pool finishes, Lawn & Garden mulches and landscape features and Techniseal® sands and sealant technologies. For more information, visit oldcastleapg.com.

Oldcastle APG is part of CRH’s Building Products division.