Accounts and Other Receivables, Net - Schedule of Accounts Notes Loans and Financing Receivable (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Receivables [Abstract]
Trade receivables-CompX	$ 10,904	$ 8,696
Promissory note receivable		3,034
Accrued insurance recoveries	562	476
Income taxes receivable from Valhi	2,513
Other receivables	59	51
Refundable income taxes	8	8
Allowance for doubtful accounts	(163)	(216)
Total	$ 13,883	$ 12,049