Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified		12 Months Ended
	Jan. 30, 2010 Notes Payable, Other Payables	Dec. 31, 2013 Intercorporate Services Agreement Fees Contran	Dec. 31, 2012 Intercorporate Services Agreement Fees Contran	Dec. 31, 2011 Intercorporate Services Agreement Fees Contran	Dec. 31, 2013 Intercorporate Services Agreement Fees Contran Scenario Forecast	Dec. 31, 2012 Valhi common stock Notes Payable, Other Payables	Dec. 31, 2011 Valhi common stock Notes Payable, Other Payables
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing	$ 40
Interest expense on our promissory note to Valhi						0.3	0.3
Expected ISA fees payable during 2013		$ 24.1	$ 21.2	$ 18.2	$ 21.9