| Cover | Nov. 06, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 6, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-33841 |
| Entity Registrant Name | VULCAN MATERIALS COMPANY |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001396009 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-8579133 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NJ |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1200 Urban Center Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Birmingham |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 35242 |
| City Area Code | 205 |
| Local Phone Number | 298-3000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1 par value |
| Trading Symbol | VMC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
