BUSINESS SEGMENTS - Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings to Net Earnings (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings From Segment to Net Earnings [Line Items]
Net contribution to earnings									$ 661	$ 546	$ (357)
Interest expense, net of capitalized interest									(384)	(452)	(462)
Income (loss) before income taxes (continuing and discontinued operations)									277	94	(819)
Income taxes (continuing and discontinued operations)									54	1,187	274
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Weyerhaeuser common shareholders	65	157	10	99	171	1,116	14	(20)	331	1,281	(545)
Segment, Continuing Operations [Member]
Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings From Segment to Net Earnings [Line Items]
Net contribution to earnings									641	532	(289)
Segment, Discontinued Operations [Member]
Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings From Segment to Net Earnings [Line Items]
Net contribution to earnings									$ 20	$ 14	$ (68)