Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (1,550)	$ (2,508)	$ (7,640)	$ (408)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, including taxes of $(750) and $446 in 2014 and $810 and $546 in 2013	3,244	(2,786)	777	(8,722)
Comprehensive income	1,694	(5,294)	(6,863)	(9,130)
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(907)	(423)	(1,751)	(1,220)
Comprehensive income attributable to TETRA stockholders	$ 787	$ (5,717)	$ (8,614)	$ (10,350)