Litigation (Details Textual) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrual potential liability for environmental cleanup	$ 17	$ 18

Accrual potential liability for environmental cleanup.

No definition available.

Name:	usg_AccrualPotentialLiabilityForEnvironmentalCleanup
Namespace Prefix:	usg_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant