Segments (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges by segment
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges	$ 0	$ 3	$ 3	$ 5
North American Gypsum [Member]
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges by segment
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges	1	1	3	4
Worldwide Ceilings [Member]
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges by segment
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges	0	0	0	1
Building Products Distribution [Member]
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges by segment
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges	(1)	2	(1)	0
Corporate [Member]
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges by segment
Restructuring and long-lived asset impairment charges	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1	$ 0