Education

Upcoming Webinars: Mastering SRW Design with SRWall 5.0 Software

July 24, 2024

Segmental Retaining Walls (SRWs) are integral to both landscape and structural design, offering unique aesthetic and functional benefits. To help designers and engineers fully leverage the potential of SRWs, CMHA is hosting two comprehensive webinars on the latest SRWall 5.0 software. Led by CMHA expert, Gabriela Mariscal, SRW Division Engineer, these sessions will cover the critical aspects of static and seismic SRW design.

Webinar 1: SRW Static Design with SRWall 5.0

Date: July 31

This session will provide an in-depth exploration of SRWall 5.0, focusing on the static design of reinforced SRWs. Attendees will learn how to effectively use this powerful software to achieve optimal design results, ensuring both functionality and durability.

Top 5 Objectives:

Review SRW Components Understand the essential components that make up an SRW and their roles in the overall design.
Review the Basic SRW Design Parameters Learn the fundamental parameters that influence SRW design and how to apply them effectively.
Become Familiar with the SRWall 5.0 Software Gain hands-on experience with SRWall 5.0, exploring its features and capabilities.
Learn How to Use the Software to Design a Reinforced SRW Wall Master the steps involved in designing a reinforced SRW wall using SRWall 5.0.
Utilize Vendor Data Files (VDF) to Facilitate the Design Discover how to leverage vendor data files to streamline the design process and ensure accuracy.

Key Features:

Structural Integrity: Ensure the design can handle the expected loads and stresses.
Material Selection: Choose materials that offer the necessary strength and durability.
Design Techniques: Apply industry-recommended techniques to achieve a robust and reliable design.
Software Proficiency: Develop proficiency in using SRWall 5.0 to enhance design efficiency and effectiveness.

Webinar 2: SRW Seismic Design with SRWall 5.0

Date: August 28

Focusing on seismic design, this session will delve into the principles and practices essential for creating resilient SRWs in earthquake-prone areas. Gabriela Mariscal will guide attendees through the process of using SRWall 5.0 for seismic applications, ensuring designs meet the highest standards of safety and performance.

Top 3 Objectives:

Review SRW Seismic Principles Understand the fundamental principles governing SRW design in seismic conditions.
Review the Basic SRW Design Safety Factors Learn about the safety factors crucial to ensuring the stability and integrity of SRWs under seismic loads.
Use SRWall 5.0 Software to Design a Reinforced SRW Wall Under Seismic Acceleration Gain practical experience in using SRWall 5.0 to design SRWs that can withstand seismic forces.

Key Features:

Seismic Load Resistance: Ensure the design can withstand the dynamic forces of an earthquake.
Material Selection: Use materials that provide adequate strength and flexibility under seismic stress.
Design Techniques: Implement proven design strategies to enhance the resilience of SRWs.
Software Utilization: Effectively use SRWall 5.0 to achieve precise and reliable seismic designs.

Why Attend These Webinars?

Attendees will gain invaluable knowledge on using SRWall 5.0 for both static and seismic SRW designs, enabling them to create structures that are not only visually appealing but also structurally sound and capable of withstanding various loads. These webinars are essential for professionals aiming to stay ahead in SRW design and ensure their projects meet industry standards.

Secure your spot today:

Education

Understanding Slabs and Planks: Enhancing Architectural Character and Landscape Design

July 9, 2024

Slabs and planks are unique in their visual appeal and finishes, used to complement the architectural character of adjacent buildings while enhancing the landscape. Their patterns can create strong visual effects, suggesting movement and direction, making them a favored choice for designers. However, a common question arises: How much vehicular traffic can slabs and planks handle in at-grade applications?

While most applications of slabs and planks are designed for pedestrian use, some designers, whether informed or not, push the structural capacity by incorporating them into vehicular applications. Properly designed and constructed slabs and planks can withstand a limited amount of vehicle traffic. This webinar addresses the critical considerations for designing slabs and planks to handle these loading limits, ensuring they are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.

Top 4 Objectives

In this webinar, attendees will:

Learn What Makes Slabs, Planks, and Pavers Different
- Understand the unique characteristics of slabs, planks, and pavers, and how their distinct features contribute to their use in various applications.
Learn the Different Manufacturing Processes of Slabs and Planks
- Gain insight into the different manufacturing techniques used to produce slabs and planks, and how these processes affect their durability and suitability for different uses.
Learn About Pavement Condition Index (PCI) and How It Applies to Validating Pavers and Slabs in Vehicular Applications
- Discover how the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is used to assess and validate the structural integrity of pavers and slabs in vehicular applications.
Learn How to Use Tech Note 24 to Design a Slab and/or Plank Pavement for a Vehicular Application
- Learn how to effectively utilize Tech Note 24 in the design of slab and plank pavements to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for vehicular traffic.

Key Considerations

When incorporating slabs and planks into vehicular applications, consider the following:

Structural Capacity: Understand the load-bearing capacity of the materials and ensure they are designed to handle the expected vehicular traffic.
Material Selection: Choose the appropriate materials based on their strength, durability, and suitability for the intended use.
Manufacturing Quality: Ensure that the slabs and planks are manufactured to high standards to maintain their integrity under load.
Design Techniques: Apply proper design techniques, such as those outlined in Tech Note 24, to create pavements that can withstand vehicular traffic without compromising their aesthetic appeal.

Why Attend This Webinar?

Members will gain valuable knowledge on how to effectively use slabs and planks in both pedestrian and vehicular applications. This will enable them to make informed decisions, ensuring their designs are not only visually appealing but also structurally sound and capable of withstanding the intended loads.

Watch the full webinar on demand now.

Education

Sponsor a Course with CMHA: Elevate Your Contractor Installer’s Expertise

July 3, 2024

As a valued CMHA member, you have the unique opportunity to host in-person courses at your facility. Whether you’re looking to upskill your contractor installers or aiming to provide top-notch training for your team and customers, sponsoring CMHA’s courses will help you stay ahead with the latest industry trends and techniques in the hardscaping industry.

SRW Installer

The Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) installer course prepares hardscape contractors and installers with essential concepts related to the design, construction, and performance of SRWs. This training ensures you have the knowledge needed to install quality walls that meet customer expectations and guarantee long-term success. By sponsoring an SRW installer course, you’ll empower your team with skills that will set them apart in the competitive hardscaping industry.

CPI Installer

Certified Concrete Paver Installer (CPI) courses provide in-depth knowledge and understanding of properly installing interlocking concrete pavement systems. Ensuring your team meets all qualifications and requirements before applying for certification is crucial. Sponsoring a CPI installer course will solidify your team’s expertise in concrete paver installation, making them more efficient and effective in their projects.

MSV Installer

Manufactured Stone Veneer (MSV) installers gain insights into relevant ASTM standards and installation best practices through this comprehensive course. Combining in-classroom instruction with hands-on training, the MSV installer course equips students with practical experience in executing MSV projects and passing the practical exam. Sponsoring an MSV installer course ensures your team is well-versed in modern installation techniques, enhancing the quality of their work.

PICP Installer

Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP) installer courses are perfect for experienced contractors and those looking to enter the permeable pavements sector. This course covers design principles, storm-water management, permeable pavement applications, and more. By sponsoring a PICP installer course, you’ll help your team and customers become familiar with sustainable pavement solutions, broadening their expertise and service offerings.

Benefits of Sponsoring a Course

Stay Ahead of Industry Trends: Ensure your team and customers are up-to-date with the latest techniques and standards.
Improve Quality and Efficiency: Equip your staff and customers with the skills needed to deliver top-quality work efficiently.
Boost Employee Morale and Retention: Show your commitment to professional development, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and employee retention.
Enhance Your Business’s Reputation: Being known for having a well-trained and certified team can attract more clients and projects.

Learn more about sponsoring a CMHA course today!

Education

Advance Your Career With a CPI Certification

November 16, 2023

Last July, CMHA launched its new concrete paver installer certification. CMHA is elevating industry standards by getting the CPI certification recognized by the International Society of Standards (ISO). ISO accreditation would mean formal recognition of the CPI certification and reinforce the credibility of certified installers on an international scale. This organization has set standards that all certification bodies must comply with to earn accreditation.

In response to these standards, CMHA has updated the CPI certification process to ensure our program meets the ISO requirements. Continue reading to review the application process and see how formal certification can benefit your career.

Five Steps to Certification

Gather Paperwork: Demonstrate your five years of installation experience and the installation of 10,000 square feet of pavers. Include two references who can sign off on the work you completed.
Apply for certification: Email your application to our certification team for review.
Schedule your exam: Once we approve your application, our certification team will reach out to schedule your exam. *You have 90 days from the day we approve your application to take the exam.
Prepare for your exam: Study, study, study! Set aside plenty of time to review the study guide provided by CMHA before your exam day.
Earn your certification: Attain a passing score of 80% or higher on your exam to receive your CPI certification.

The CPI certification program offers a unique opportunity for installers to enhance their skills and advance their careers within the concrete hardscape industry. Certified installers have an in-depth understanding of proper interlocking concrete pavement system installation and adhere to industry standards. They also pledge to follow recognized and accepted industry best practices, technical competence, integrity, and adherence to the CMHA Installer Code of Conduct. Once certified, you will have a powerful tool to market your expertise to prospective clients, displaying your proficiency as a paver installer. Earning the CPI certification sets you apart from the local competition and positions you as a leader in your field.

Ready to take the next step toward becoming a certified installer? Learn more about the certification process and kick-start your journey toward career growth today.

Education

Celebrating CMHA’s First CPI Certified Installer

August 9, 2023

On July 1, CMHA unveiled its new Concrete Paver Installer (CPI) certification program, a significant milestone in our commitment to enhancing industry standards. This program offers comprehensive competency testing in paver installation methods, equipment, materials, safety, and design. Notably, the CPI program represents our dedication to transitioning all our education certificates into recognized certifications under the International Organization of Standards.

Below is an interview with Terri Childs, owner of Nature’s Way Landscaping and the first certified installer under the new program. In this Q&A, we delve into Terri’s background, his experience as an installer, and his valuable advice for those considering enrollment in the CMHA CPI Certification program.

Q: How did you get into the industry? How long have you been an installer? A: My wife was on maternity leave 32 years ago and I had two part-time jobs. At the time, we thought I could run a part-time business to earn more for the family, so I started Nature’s Way as an Organic Lawn Care company. We slowly grew over the decades and now the company handles landscape and hardscape projects.

Q: How have you applied what you learned from the CPI course on a job site to solve an issue?
A: I have not used specific information from the course, but rather the entire installation process from the course and we rarely run into issues. I have used CPI knowledge to help non-CPI-certified companies with their installation issues. Sometimes I get questions and concerns from clients about other companies and I always use the information from the CPI course and CMHA research to answer their questions and concerns.

Q: What does this certificate mean to you and what made you want to continue to renew with CMHA? A: It shows our clients we follow current Industry Standards and the certification means we have achieved a certain level of expertise. The certification separates us from the non-certified installers in the area.

Q: What are your thoughts on the transition CMHA is taking with CPI and why is it important to be certified in this industry?
A: I am not sure I fully agree with separating the course and the certification, but it is the normal way of doing it with other industry certifications. I benefited when I became a Certified Landscaper, I did not have to take the course, just pass the exam and prove my hours of work in the field, like the way the CPI certification is set up now, I think in the end we will serve many more installers.

Q: What would you share about the CPI program to encourage others to consider taking the course? A: For such a low price and the ability to provide proven construction methods, why not? Your staff will feel empowered when they take the course and get certified.

Q: What was your experience when applying to the Grandfathered Certification Program?
A: It was simple. The staff quickly processed my application, which was a pleasant surprise.

Certified installers like Terri play a vital role in maintaining the industry’s commitment to best practices in paver installation. New and seasoned installers can develop foundational knowledge and innovative skills through CMHA education courses and certification programs. Learn more about our CPI course and certification program.

Education

Instructor Spotlight: Dan Hughes

June 8, 2023

CMHA has a strong roster of experienced and knowledgeable instructors who lead our certified courses throughout the year. Dan Hughes is the owner of Segmental Systems, Inc., and has over 25 years of experience in the hardscaping industry. Having installed over 3 million square feet of pavers, slabs, porcelain pavers, and 750,000 square feet of segmental retaining walls (SRWs) in both residential and commercial markets, Dan brings immense experience to each class he teaches.

Over the years Dan has received various accolades including recognition at the Pacific Northwest HNA Paver Qualifier (2016, 2017, and 2019) followed by earning the title of National HNA Installer Champion for three years (2018, 2019, and 2021). His commitment to hardscapes and education furthers as he’s served on various CMHA committees including the Hardscape Construction Committee, Education Committee, and the new Certification Committee. Dan’s wealth of knowledge and experience in the field provided valuable insight as he also took part in the task group that developed the 10th version of the CPI manual and is currently developing the SRW manual.

Dan’s commitment to the industry and helping others grow in the trade is a passion he holds firm to. Check out this Q&A with Dan to learn more about his background, his experience as an instructor, and advice to others considering becoming an instructor.

Q: What courses do you teach?
A: I teach several CMHA courses including the Concrete Paver Installer course, Residential Specialist, Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavers Course, and the Segmental Retaining Wall Installer Course. I also teach one-day “hands-on builds” for Belgard University. The “hands-on builds” are designed to teach people the tips and tricks I’ve learned throughout my career.

Q: What is your favorite memory from teaching?
A: My very first class. I co-taught with Gale Schroeder, whom I had met a few times before. He asked me to help him with the class to gain experience and confidence in teaching. I was initially nervous, but I quickly found my rhythm and the class went well.

Over the years, I have returned to certain cities to teach courses and I was delighted to see familiar faces, such as five guys in Montana whom I have taught three or four different courses. It’s truly rewarding to witness your students’ passion for learning and to see their progress over time.

Q: What made you interested in becoming an instructor? Why have you continued to instruct over the years?
A: Initially, I became interested in teaching as a way to earn extra income and expand my skills beyond just being an installer. However, after teaching my first class, I realized that my 25 years of experience in the industry gave me valuable knowledge to share with students. Now, my focus is on helping others become skilled installers and avoid the costly mistakes I’ve made in the past.

Q: What takeaway do you have from being an instructor?
A: Teaching has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. I’ve found that relating the course material to real-life situations is an effective way to engage students and make the content more relatable. It’s fulfilling to see students actively participating in discussions and eager to learn. One of the biggest takeaways from teaching is that everyone in the room has something to contribute, whether it’s a question or a personal experience. This mindset creates a collaborative learning environment where everyone, including myself, can learn and grow.

Q: What would you say to someone considering becoming an instructor?
A: If someone is considering becoming an instructor, I would advise them to have a genuine passion for helping others grow in the industry. Being an instructor provides the opportunity to meet great people and help them improve their construction and sales skills, which can be very rewarding. It’s fulfilling to see students develop and build upon their foundation, becoming more efficient installers. One of the most rewarding aspects of being an instructor is receiving positive feedback from students who said they have learned more than they expected to.

Experienced instructors like Dan play a vital role in helping new talents in the industry develop solid construction foundations through CMHA education courses. Learn more about our courses and register for one near you!

Education

ICPI Releases Tech Spec 24 on Structural Design of Slabs and Planks

April 11, 2022

ICPI Tech Spec 24 entitled “Structural Design of Segmental Concrete Paving Slab and Plank Pavement Systems” provides the amount of vehicular traffic on a range of slab and plank dimensions.

Base options are compacted aggregate or concrete over an aggregate subbase. Designs specifically address weak soil subgrades and lifetime traffic loads up to 30,000 equivalent singe axle loads. Unlike interlocking concrete pavement, slabs and planks offer little if any interlock to spread loads. Therefore, traffic is limited to occasional use by cars and light trucks. Developed from modeling and full-scale load tests, the design method provides tables from which designers can select paving unit dimensions and soil strength to determine the appropriate traffic level. The easy-to-use bulletin aimed at landscape architects and civil engineers is available for download.

Education

ICPI Presents Design Guidance for Slabs and Planks Subject to Vehicular Traffic

April 4, 2022

With the increasing number of ICPI members manufacturing and installing concrete paving slabs and planks, a key design question is how much vehicular traffic can they take? While most at-grade applications are for pedestrian use only, designers are pushing slabs and planks into a growing number of vehicular applications unaware of the risks for damage. On March 31, 2022, Bryan Horr, P.E. presented the latest guidance on the limited amount of vehicular traffic slabs and planks can accept. Key points in his presentation included:

Differences between slabs and pavers
Design elements and applications for slabs and planks
Modeling and full-scale load testing outcomes (see below photo)
Structural design guidance in the new ICPI Tech Spec 24: Structural Design of Segmental Concrete Paving Slab and Plank Pavement Systems

The recorded webinar is available to view.

Free for members; $50 for non-members.

Education Events

Hardscape Installation Draws a Crowd at the National Collegiate Landscape Competition

March 22, 2022

From March 16-19, 2022, students from across the United States gathered at the North Carolina State University for the 46th Annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC) organized by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP).

The NCLC is the largest national competition and career recruitment event for college students studying horticulture and landscaping, with approximately 530 students from 41 colleges competing each year in 31 events. Students demonstrate their skills in tree climbing, patio building, identifying horticulture specimens, skid steer operation, sales presentations, exterior/interior design, irrigation troubleshooting, wood construction, and more.

On March 16, students attended workshops to sharpen their knowledge and abilities on a wide range of topics related to the landscape industry and completed qualification exams that would allow them to participate in the competitive events. A Career Fair started on March 17 which several ICPI members participated including Belgard, Ewing, Grunder Landscaping Co., Lifescape, Para Space Landscaping, Permaloc, SiteOne, Southview Design, and Weller Brothers Landscaping. In the afternoon competitive event briefings were held to inform the students about the details, procedures, and requirements of the events. On March 18 each student was allowed to participate in up to three events. ICPI staff provided support for the workshop, competition briefing, and hardscape installation event.

In the Hardscape Installation event, 31 teams constructed an 8 ft x 8 ft interlocking concrete pavement patio in a basketweave pattern with a soldier course and L-shaped seat wall. Teams were given 110 minutes to compete the task. All teams did well, and each fought the clock right to the very last second. Afterwards each installation was evaluated by a team of judges and scores were awarded for accuracy, structural soundness, site cleanup, and safety. In the end the following students/schools were named the Top 3.

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION

First Place

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST

JOSEPH CONTARDO and AMANDA RAMSDELL

Second Place

COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

OWEN FORCHIONE and AJ MCCOY

Third Place

SUNY COBLESKILL

MICHAEL FASANELLA and NICHOLAS KIMBALL

Belgard and Permaloc will be sponsoring the first and second place teams to compete at Hardscape North America, October 19-21, in Louisville KY, in the 2022 HNA Installer Championship.

ICPI staff also took the opportunity to promote the licensing of the Concrete Paver Installer Course to schools that are currently not qualified to teach the course to their students.

Landscape and horticulture graduates are in high demand. The chronic workforce shortage in the landscape industry means there is plenty of opportunity for students to select their desired career paths and locations. The NCLC brings students and companies together to build a strong future for the industry.

Hardscape Installation First Place Team: UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST

First-Place Finishers, UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST, and Second-Place Finishers, COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Education Events

ICPI Contributes to ASCE Stormwater Operation & Maintenance Conference

March 22, 2022

As part of ICPI’s continued efforts to increase awareness of permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) advantages and best maintenance practices, ICPI members and staff presented two technical sessions on PICP deicing and maintenance equipment at the ASCE Operation and Maintenance of Stormwater Control Measures Conference in Wilmington, NC on March 13-16, 2022.

Bryan Horr, P.E. presented ICPI Foundation-funded research by the University of Toronto demonstrating as much as a 50% reduction in deicer use in a breakout session attended by 23 people. Another breakout session on best PICP cleaning equipment and practices attracted 26 attendees.

Organized by ICPI members, an outdoor demo of cleaning equipment attracted 35 participants. The demo brought home the effectiveness of cleaning with high-pressure air and vacuum by measuring before and after-cleaning surface infiltration rates on 12-year-old, clogged PICP. Overall, the ASCE conference highlighted advances in operation and maintenance of gray and green stormwater control infrastructure, life cycle cost analysis, lessons learned from the field, and more. The conference attracted hundreds of academic instructors, state and municipal engineers, planners, public works staff, consultants, and stormwater regulators.