Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 3,325	$ 18,757	$ 5,418
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of taxes of $(1,076) in 2013, $(951) in 2012, and $(1,828) in 2011	(2,409)	1,383	(6,647)
Net change in derivative fair value, net of taxes of $1,578 in 2011	0	0	2,663
Comprehensive income (loss)	916	20,140	1,434
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(3,172)	(2,797)	(1,271)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to TETRA stockholders	$ (2,256)	$ 17,343	$ 163