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, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings From Segment to Net Earnings [Line Items]
Net contribution to earnings									$ 788	$ 661	$ 546
Interest expense, net of capitalized interest									(348)	(384)	(452)
Income before income taxes (continuing and discontinued operations)									440	277	94
Income taxes (continuing and discontinued operations)									(55)	54	1,187
Net earnings attributable to Weyerhaeuser common shareholders	143	117	84	41	65	157	10	99	385	331	1,281
Segment, Continuing Operations
Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings From Segment to Net Earnings [Line Items]
Net contribution to earnings									788	641	532
Segment, Discontinued Operations
Reconciliation of Contribution (Charge) to Earnings From Segment to Net Earnings [Line Items]
Net contribution to earnings									$ 0	$ 20	$ 14