Commitments and Contingencies (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Minimum royalties under mineral leases
2012	$ 19,598
2013-2014	39,182
2015-2016	29,090
Thereafter	127,173
Total	$ 215,043

Mineral leases future minimum royalties due in fourth and fifth year.

No definition available.

Name:	vmc_MineralLeasesFutureMinimumRoyaltiesDueInFourthAndFifthYear
Namespace Prefix:	vmc_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant