Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
Jul. 02, 2011	Jun. 26, 2010	Jul. 02, 2011	Jun. 26, 2010
Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated net income	$ 22,731	$ 16,037	$ 63,273	$ 50,836
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation	1,256	356	8,248	(5,234)
Net change with respect to derivative instruments and hedging activities	544	(467)	(233)	(190)
Other, net	395	362	432	1,762
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	2,195	251	8,447	(3,662)
Comprehensive income	24,926	16,288	71,720	47,174
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(755)	(366)	(970)	(1,275)
Comprehensive income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc.	$ 24,171	$ 15,922	$ 70,750	$ 45,899

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