EQUITY (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
EQUITY [Abstract]
Shares Purchased and Retired	September 30 December 31 September 30in thousands, except average cost2021 2020 2020Shares Purchased and Retired Number 0  214  214  Total purchase price$                0  $       26,132  $       26,132  Average cost per share$           0.00  $       121.92  $       121.92
Changes in Total Equity	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30in thousands, except per share data 2021 2020 2021 2020 Total Shareholders' Equity Balance at beginning of period $    6,293,113  $    5,764,151  $    6,027,330  $    5,621,857  Net earnings attributable to Vulcan 176,906  199,788  532,865  469,962  Common stock issued Share-based compensation plans, net of shares withheld for taxes (3,938) (617) (16,815) (17,157) Purchase and retirement of common stock 0  0  0  (26,132) Share-based compensation expense 7,512  8,019  25,200  23,239  Cash dividends on common stock ($0.37/$0.34/$1.11/$1.02 per share, respectively) (49,094) (45,034) (147,267) (135,161) Other comprehensive income (expense) 1,599  2,045  4,785  (8,256) Balance at end of period $    6,426,098  $    5,928,352  $    6,426,098  $    5,928,352