Comprehensive Earnings Attributable to Martin Marietta Materials Incorporated (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Net earnings attributable to Martin Marietta	$ 53,743	$ 71,836	$ 91,646	$ 85,304
Other comprehensive (loss) earnings, net of tax	(1,140)	3,548	833	3,459
Comprehensive earnings attributable to Martin Marietta	$ 52,603	$ 75,384	$ 92,479	$ 88,763