CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net income (loss)	$ (126.9)	$ 222.1	$ 295.0
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Currency translation	7.5	19.6	(28.2)
Marketable securities	10.3	(20.8)	12.9
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net	53.1	(40.2)	(33.6)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(73.8)	181.9	261.4
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	(9.8)	40.8	88.4
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Valhi stockholders	(64.0)	141.1	173.0
Defined Benefit Pension Plans
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan	32.1	(37.5)	(16.1)
OPEB
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan	$ 3.2	$ (1.5)	$ (2.2)