CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Net earnings	$ 58,891	$ 58,442	$ 228,347	$ 172,189
Foreign currency translation adjustments:
Unrealized translation gain (loss)	18,124	23,747	(44,458)	22,488
Realized loss included in net earnings during the period			(5,194)
Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge:
Amortization cost included in interest expense	100	100	300	300
Actuarial gain (loss) in defined benefit pension plan	857	1,962	(37)	2,595
Other comprehensive income (loss)	19,081	25,809	(49,389)	25,383
Comprehensive income	77,972	84,251	178,958	197,572
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,156)	(2,958)	1,033	(5,439)
Comprehensive income attributable to Valmont Industries, Inc.	$ 75,816	$ 81,293	$ 179,991	$ 192,133