KEVIN HILL

Tell us about your background in carpentry and construction. 

I’ve worked as a Carpenter for over 18 years from the early days as an Apprentice, to joining the MILEHAM team around 18 months ago. Since completing my Carpentry Certificate at College, I’ve gained lots of on the job experience working on commercial and residential projects in the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand and now Australia (I’m originally from Northern England). I’ve even worked at a theme park, building and constructing theme park rides!

What does a Carpenter typically do on a building site?    

The jobs vary depending on whether it’s a new build or a renovation. A new build would see me laying the foundations, constructing the framework, roofing, walls, cladding, doors, windows, etc. In a renovation, it’s more about assessing, removing or relocating parts of the old structure and replacing with new materials to suit the design.

What are the biggest changes to Carpentry since you started your career?

Back when I started, we were working with very basic tools like chisels and hand saws. The advancement in power tools means there’s now a tool for every job imaginable, which makes the work far more efficient. I’ve also seen a gradual shift to using more sustainable materials in construction.  

What’s the most challenging project you’ve worked on – and how did you overcome the obstacles? 

There haven’t been too many really difficult jobs. But the challenge of working with curved surfaces comes to mind. When you’re presented with a curved steel building that needs cladding, imaginative solutions are sometime required. We once put cladding in a pool for a few hours to soften up so it could be moulded and fixed into position. The conditions of wooden frames in an old house renovation can also be tricky. Many of the materials and specs used back then were not up to code, and you often have rotting timber to deal with.   

The most memorable and enjoyable job you’ve worked on.  

I really enjoyed working on MILEHAM’s recent project in Lane Cove West. The Clients were lovely to work with, and it was a great relaxed environment where we had the opportunity to focus on this one project in a short period. It was a smooth, streamlined project with interesting carpentry requirements and detailed finishes. This project has been submitted for the 2024 Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards – so fingers crossed!

This or That?

• Traditional or modern? Traditional

• Inside or outside? Outside

• Renovation or New Build? New Build

• Snow or Surf? Surf

• Morning person or Night Owl? Neither – I’m at my peak in the middle of the day!