Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (209,467)	$ (167,575)	$ 3,325
Foreign currency translation loss, net of taxes of $0 in 2015, $3,368 in 2014, and $(1,076) in 2013	(16,920)	(22,312)	(2,409)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(226,387)	(189,887)	916
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	87,155	(2,103)	(3,172)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to TETRA stockholders	$ (139,232)	$ (191,990)	$ (2,256)