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Workshop Sheds in Canterbury, Virginia
Why Canterbury Homeowners Choose Workshops
Foundation prep on Piedmont clay typically requires a properly graded gravel pad to prevent shifting and moisture problems.
Space. With affluent residential lots, typically a quarter to half an acre, most Canterbury homeowners fit a 12×20 or 12×24 workshop comfortably in the backyard. Tighter lots work well with a 12×20 — still enough room for a table saw, workbench, and organized wall storage. Larger properties can go 14×32 or bigger for separate machining and assembly zones.
Permits. Virginia exempts one-story accessory structures under 256 square feet from building permits — making our 12×20 (240 sq ft) the most popular workshop size. Structures under 256 square feet are exempt from building permits, but a zoning permit is still required. Setbacks are typically 3–5 feet on the side and rear in urban districts, though this varies widely. For specifics on your lot, reach out to City of Richmond Dept. of Planning & Development Review ((804) 646-6304).
Urban lots are often narrow, and historic district overlay zones add restrictions. Many areas are R-6 or R-48 zoned.
Workshop Configurations
Heavy-Duty Floor System
Workshop-grade floors use 2×6 or 2×8 pressure-treated joists on 12-inch centers with 3/4-inch AdvanTech decking. No bounce, no flex — even under a 600-pound table saw.
7 to 8-Foot Sidewalls
Higher walls mean room for overhead dust collection ductwork, vertical tool storage, standard residential doors, and loft storage for seasonal items.
Dual Door Configuration
6-foot double doors for moving sheet goods and equipment, plus a 36-inch personnel door for daily entry without dumping all your heat or AC.
10x16
160 sq ft
A 160 sq ft workspace for a dedicated workbench, power tools, and organized storage. The perfect starter shop.
12x20
240 sq ft
Our most popular workshop at 240 sq ft — fits a table saw, workbench, and lumber rack. Under VA permit threshold. Shell from $6,000.
14x24
336 sq ft
Spacious 336 sq ft shop with room for multiple stationary tools and a dedicated assembly area. Shell from $8,500.
14x28+
392+ sq ft
Full-featured 392 sq ft workshop with separate machining and assembly zones. Turnkey from $35,000.
Pro tip: A shed that’s a home office by day and a sports lounge by night is a smart investment. We build flexible layouts that accommodate both stories.
Canterbury Permits & Codes
Pricing
✓ 12×24 (288 sq ft) — Economy $6,500–$7,800 | Premium $9,000–$11,000 | Garage Package $10,000–$12,500
✓ 14×24 (336 sq ft) — Economy $8,500–$10,000 | Premium $11,500–$13,500 | Garage Package $12,500–$15,000
✓ 14×32 (448 sq ft) — Economy $11,000–$13,500 | Premium $14,500–$17,500 | Garage Package $16,000–$19,000
Workshop upgrades (heavy floor, electrical prep, insulation) typically add 25–40% to base. Custom sizing quoted per project.
Financing
✓ Traditional — From 6.99% APR with approved credit.
✓ Cash — Best pricing. No fees.
In our core delivery area — free standard delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a permit for a workshop shed in Virginia?
If it’s 256 square feet or less, you’re exempt from the building permit. But you’ll still need a zoning permit and electrical permit if wiring the structure.
Q: What size workshop do I need for woodworking?
12×20 is the functional minimum. 12×24 gives you separate machining and assembly areas. For a full shop, go 14×24 or larger.