Summary of Standby Letters of Credit (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013
Standby Letters of Credit
Risk management insurance	$ 34,840
Industrial revenue bond	14,230
Reclamation/restoration requirements	7,862
Total	$ 56,932

The total amount of contingent obligations under letters of credit outstanding related to reclamation/restoration requirements as of the reporting date.

No definition available.

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