Davey Tree Expert 10-Q 6 Nov 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Oct. 31, 2014
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'DAVEY TREE EXPERT CO	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000277638	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	27-Sep-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	13,212,772

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash	$17,143	$15,861
Accounts receivable, net	127,679	105,256
Operating supplies	6,391	5,661
Other current assets	26,748	25,238
Total current assets	177,961	152,016
Property and equipment	526,574	484,150
Less accumulated depreciation	369,305	347,266
Property and equipment, net	157,269	136,884
Other assets	16,900	16,917
Identified intangible assets and goodwill, net	34,466	27,561
Total assets	386,596	333,378
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	32,852	37,922
Accrued expenses	31,113	36,858
Other current liabilities	35,619	30,491
Total current liabilities	99,584	105,271
Long-term debt	91,578	50,034
Self-insurance accruals	40,093	34,655
Other noncurrent liabilities	11,847	12,280
Total liabilities	243,102	202,240
Common shareholders' equity:	'	'
Common shares, $1.00 par value, per share; 24,000 shares authorized; 21,457 shares issued and outstanding before treasury shares as of September 27, 2014	21,457	21,457
Additional paid-in capital	8,100	5,008
Common shares subscribed, unissued	9,557	10,467
Retained earnings	248,669	230,975
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-5,323	-4,393
Shareholders' equity before treasury stock	282,460	263,514
Less: Cost of Common shares held in treasury; 8,171 shares at September 27, 2014 and 8,018 shares at December 31, 2013	133,113	125,034
Common shares subscription receivable	5,853	7,342
Common shareholders' equity	143,494	131,138
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$386,596	$333,378

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Common stock, par value	$1	$1
Common stock, shares authorized	24,000	24,000
Common stock, shares issued	21,457	21,457
Common stock, shares outstanding	21,457	21,457
Treasury stock, shares	8,171	8,018

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Revenues	$216,604	$194,772	$587,174	$533,675
Costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'
Operating	138,991	125,658	378,505	346,310
Selling	37,179	32,376	102,051	89,623
General and administrative	12,407	12,103	39,211	37,330
Depreciation and amortization	11,071	10,255	31,439	29,471
Gain on sale of assets, net	-188	-501	-266	-1,161
Costs and expenses	199,460	179,891	550,940	501,573
Income from operations	17,144	14,881	36,234	32,102
Other income (expense):	'	'	'	'
Interest expense	-676	-711	-2,101	-2,052
Interest income	56	76	201	237
Other, net	-1,112	-713	-2,417	-2,022
Income before income taxes	15,412	13,533	31,917	28,265
Income taxes	5,755	4,889	12,225	10,797
Net income	$9,657	$8,644	$19,692	$17,468
Net income per share:	'	'	'	'
Basic	$0.72	$0.63	$1.43	$1.24
Diluted	$0.69	$0.61	$1.39	$1.20
Weighted-average shares outstanding:	'	'	'	'
Basic	13,428	13,720	13,745	14,087
Diluted	13,899	14,255	14,167	14,547
Dividends declared per share	$0.05	$0.05	$0.14	$0.14

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$9,657	$8,644	$19,692	$17,468
Components of other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,263	444	-1,266	-925
Amortization of defined benefit pension items:	'	'	'	'
Net actuarial loss	109	216	329	646
Prior service cost	3	1	7	5
Defined benefit pension plan adjustments	112	217	336	651
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-1,151	661	-930	-274
Comprehensive income	$8,506	$9,305	$18,762	$17,194

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Operating activities	'	'
Net income	$19,692	$17,468
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	31,439	29,471
Other	-322	-608
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'
Accounts receivable	-20,570	-365
Operating liabilities	-5,535	-14,441
Other, net	-1,608	-14,105
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	3,404	-48
Net cash provided by operating activities	23,096	17,420
Capital expenditures:	'	'
Equipment	-40,152	-37,639
Land and building	-9,116	-2,592
Purchases of businesses	-9,544	-80
Other	423	1,748
Net cash used in investing activities	-58,389	-38,563
Financing activities	'	'
Revolving credit facility proceeds, net	34,600	20,300
Purchase of common shares for treasury	13,242	13,716
Sale of common shares from treasury	8,143	7,959
Dividends	-1,998	-1,910
Proceeds from notes payable	9,072	3,808
Net cash provided by financing activities	36,575	16,441
Increase (decrease) in cash	1,282	-4,702
Cash, beginning of period	15,861	19,647
Cash, end of period	17,143	14,945
Supplemental cash flow information follows:	'	'
Interest paid	2,461	2,370
Income taxes paid	$6,449	$16,901

Basis_of_Financial_Statement_P

Basis of Financial Statement Preparation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Financial Statement Preparation [Text Block]	'
	Basis of Financial Statement Preparation
	The condensed consolidated financial statements present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of The Davey Tree Expert Company and its subsidiaries. When we refer to “we,” “us,” “our,” “Davey,” or “Davey Tree”, we mean The Davey Tree Expert Company and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context indicates otherwise.
	We have prepared the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), as codified in the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC"), and with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial information. The consolidated financial statements include all adjustments which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Certain information and disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. We suggest that these condensed consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 (the “2013 Annual Report”).
	Use of Estimates in Financial Statement Preparation--The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts. Our consolidated financial statements include amounts that are based on management’s best estimates and judgments.  Estimates are used for, but not limited to, accounts receivable valuation, depreciable lives of fixed assets, self-insurance accruals, income taxes and revenue recognition. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Interim Results of Operations--Interim results may not be indicative of calendar year performance because of seasonal and short-term variations.
	Recent Accounting Guidance
	Accounting Standards Update 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)--In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09 ("ASU 2014-09"), “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” ASU 2014-09 supersedes the guidance in Topic 605, "Revenue Recognition," and will replace all current U.S. GAAP guidance on revenue recognition and eliminate all industry-specific guidance.
	The new revenue recognition guidance provides a unified model to determine when and how revenue is recognized. The underlying principle is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration for which the entity expects in exchange for those goods and services. The guidance provides a five-step analysis of transactions to determine when and how revenue is recognized. Other major provisions include capitalization of certain contract costs, consideration of the time value of money in the transaction price, and allowing estimates of variable consideration to be recognized before contingencies are resolved in certain circumstances. The guidance also requires enhanced information to be presented in the financial statements regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers.
	The guidance will be effective for Davey Tree beginning January 1, 2017 and can be applied either retrospectively to each period presented or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. Early adoption is not permitted. We are currently evaluating the ASU to determine the impact that it may have, if any, on our consolidated financial statements.

Seasonality_of_Business

Seasonality of Business	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Seasonality of Business [Text Block]	'
	Seasonality of Business
	Due to the seasonality of our business, our operating results for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 are not indicative of results that may be expected for any other interim period or for the year ending December 31, 2014. Business seasonality is the result of traditionally higher revenues during the second and third quarters as compared with the first and fourth quarters of the year, while the methods of accounting for fixed costs, such as depreciation expense, amortization, rent and interest expense, are not significantly impacted by business seasonality.

Accounts_Receivable_Net_and_Su

Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance-Sheet Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance Sheet Information [Abstract]	'
Accounts receivable net and supplemental balance-sheet information [Text Block]	'
	Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance-Sheet Information
	Accounts receivable, net, consisted of the following:
	Accounts receivable, net	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Accounts receivable	$	102,524	$	93,156
	Receivables under contractual arrangements	27,213		14,309
		129,737		107,465
	Less allowances for doubtful accounts	2,058		2,209
	Accounts receivable, net	$	127,679	$	105,256
	Receivables under contractual arrangements consist of work-in-process in accordance with the terms of contracts, primarily with utility services customers.
	The following comprise the amounts included in the balance sheet:
	Other current assets	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Refundable income taxes	$	—	$	5,317
	Deferred income taxes	7,715		7,715
	Prepaid expenses	18,742		11,393
	Other	291		813
	Total	$	26,748	$	25,238
	C.	Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance-Sheet Information (continued)
	Accrued expenses	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Employee compensation	$	18,571	$	18,578
	Accrued compensated absences	7,407		6,953
	Self-insured medical claims	2,320		2,503
	Customer advances, deposits	719		2,191
	Taxes, other than income	1,847		5,730
	Other	249		903
	Total	$	31,113	$	36,858
	Other current liabilities	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Current portion of:
	Long-term debt	$	12,382	$	8,434
	Self-insurance accruals	22,461		22,057
	Other	776		—
	Total	$	35,619	$	30,491

Business_Combinations_Notes

Business Combinations (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Business Combinations
	During the first nine months of 2014 we invested $12,702 in seven businesses, including liabilities assumed of $1,078 and debt issued of $2,080. The cash paid was preliminarily allocated, including the liabilities assumed, to the fair value of the primary assets acquired: including, tangible assets of $4,395 and intangible assets (including goodwill) of $8,307. The measurement period for purchase price allocations ends as soon as information of the facts and circumstances becomes available, but does not exceed twelve months. During the nine months ended September 28, 2013, our investment in businesses was $110, with no liabilities assumed and debt issued of $30.
	The results of operations of acquired businesses have been included in the consolidated statements of operations beginning as of the effective dates of acquisition. The effect of these acquisitions on our consolidated revenues and results of operations was not significant.

Identified_Intangible_Assets_a

Identified Intangible Assets and Goodwill, Net	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Identified intangible assets and goodwill, net [Text Block]	'
	Identified Intangible Assets and Goodwill, Net
	The carrying amounts of the identified intangibles and goodwill acquired in connection with our historical investments in businesses were as follows:
		September 27, 2014				December 31, 2013
	Identified Intangible Assets and Goodwill, Net	Carrying		Accumulated		Carrying		Accumulated
		Amount		Amortization		Amount		Amortization
	Amortized intangible assets:
	Customer lists/relationships	$	16,344	$	12,263	$	14,429	$	11,398
	Employment-related	6,601		5,664		5,631		5,474
	Tradenames	5,312		4,067		4,525		3,754
	Amortized intangible assets	$	28,257	$	21,994	$	24,585	$	20,626
	Less accumulated amortization	21,994				20,626
	Identified intangibles, net	6,263				3,959
	Unamortized intangible assets:
	Goodwill	28,203				23,602
		$	34,466			$	27,561

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-term debt [Text Block]	'
	Long-Term Debt
	Our long-term debt consisted of the following:
		September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Revolving credit facility
	Swing-line borrowings	$	6,600	$	—
	LIBOR borrowings	48,000		20,000
		54,600		20,000
	Senior unsecured notes	30,000		30,000
	Term loans	19,360		8,468
		103,960		58,468
	Less current portion	12,382		8,434
		$	91,578	$	50,034
	Revolving Credit Facility and 5.09% Senior Unsecured Notes--We have a $175,000 revolving credit facility with a group of banks, which will expire in November 2018 and permits borrowings, as defined, up to $175,000, including a letter of credit sublimit of $100,000 and a swing-line commitment of $15,000. Under certain circumstances, the amount available under the revolving credit facility may be increased to $210,000.  The revolving credit facility contains certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for this type of facility and
	F.	Long-Term Debt (continued)
	includes financial covenant ratios with respect to a maximum leverage ratio and a maximum balance sheet leverage ratio.
	As of September 27, 2014, we had unused commitments under the facility approximating $67,614, with $107,386 committed, consisting of borrowings of $54,600 and issued letters of credit of $52,786. Borrowings outstanding bear interest, at Davey Tree’s option, of either (a) a base rate or (b) LIBOR plus a margin adjustment ranging from .75% to 1.50%--with the margin adjustments in both instances based on the Company's leverage ratio at the time of borrowing. The base rate is the greater of (i) the agent bank’s prime rate, (ii) LIBOR plus 1.5%, or (iii) the federal funds rate plus .5%. A commitment fee ranging from .10% to .25% is also required based on the average daily unborrowed commitment.
	The $30,000 senior unsecured notes are due July 22, 2020 and were issued during July 2010 as 5.09% Senior Unsecured Notes, Series A (the "5.09% Senior Notes"), pursuant to a Master Note Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) between the Company and the purchasers of the 5.09% Senior Notes.
	The 5.09% Senior Notes are equal in right of payment with our revolving credit facility and all other senior unsecured obligations of the Company. Interest is payable semiannually and five equal, annual principal payments commence on July 22, 2016 (the sixth anniversary of issuance).  The Purchase Agreement contains customary events of default and covenants related to limitations on indebtedness and transactions with affiliates and the maintenance of certain financial ratios.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Stock-based compensation[Text Block]	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Our shareholders approved the 2014 Omnibus Stock Plan (the “2014 Stock Plan”) at our annual meeting of shareholders on May 20, 2014. The 2014 Stock Plan replaced the expired 2004 Omnibus Stock Plan (the “2004 plan”) previously approved by the shareholders in 2004. The 2014 Stock Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and will remain in effect for ten years. All directors of the Company and employees of the Company and its subsidiaries are eligible to participate in the 2014 Stock Plan. The 2014 Stock Plan (similar to the 2004 plan) continues the maintenance of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as well as provisions for the grant of stock options and other stock-based incentives. The 2014 Stock Plan provides for the grant of five percent of the number of the Company’s common shares outstanding as of the first day of each fiscal year plus the number of common shares that were available for grant of awards, but not granted, in prior years. In no event, however, may the number of common shares available for the grant of awards in any fiscal year exceed ten percent of the common shares outstanding as of the first day of that fiscal year. Common shares subject to an award that is forfeited, terminated, or canceled without having been exercised are generally added back to the number of shares available for grant under the 2014 Stock Plan.
	Stock-based compensation expense under all share-based payment plans -- our Employee Stock Purchase Plan, stock option plans, stock-settled stock appreciation rights and performance-based restricted stock units -- included in the results of operations follows:
		Three months ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 27,				September 28,		September 27,				September 28,
		2014				2013		2014				2013
	Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	$	497			$	342	$	1,389			$	1,018
	G.    Stock-Based Compensation (continued)
	Stock-based compensation consisted of the following:
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan--Under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, all full-time employees with one year of service are eligible to purchase, through payroll deduction, common shares. Employee purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan are at 85% of the fair market value of the common shares--a 15% discount. We recognize compensation costs as payroll deductions are made. The 15% discount of total shares purchased under the plan resulted in compensation cost of $330 being recognized for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and $307 for the nine months ended September 28, 2013.
	Stock Option Plans--The stock options outstanding were awarded under a graded vesting schedule, measured at fair value, and have a term of ten years. Compensation costs for stock options are recognized over the requisite service period on the straight-line recognition method. Compensation cost recognized for stock options was $285 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and $162 for the nine months ended September 28, 2013.
	Stock-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights--During the nine months ended September 27, 2014, the Compensation Committee awarded 127,050 stock-settled stock appreciation rights (“SSARs”) to certain management employees and nonemployee directors, which vest ratably over five years. A SSAR is an award that allows the recipient to receive common stock equal to the appreciation in the fair market value of our common stock between the date the award was granted and the conversion date of the shares vested.
	The following table summarizes our SSARs as of September 27, 2014.
	Stock-Settled		Number			Weighted-		Weighted-		Unrecognized				Aggregate
	Stock Appreciation Rights		of			Average		Average		Compensation				Intrinsic
			Rights			Award Date		Remaining		Cost				Value
						Value		Contractual
								Life
	Unvested, January 1, 2014		283,453			$	3.15
	Granted		127,050			4.88
	Forfeited		—			—
	Vested		(95,072	)		3.18
	Unvested, September 27, 2014		315,431			$	3.84	2.3 years		$	954			$	8,769
	Employee SSARs		298,454			$	3.92	2.3 years		$	922			$	8,297
	Nonemployee Director SSARs		16,977			$	2.29	2.1 years		$	32			$	472
	Compensation costs for stock appreciation rights are determined using a fair-value method and amortized over the requisite service period. Compensation expense for stock appreciation rights was $296 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and $233 for the nine months ended September 28, 2013.
	Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units--During the nine months ended September 27, 2014, the Compensation Committee awarded 39,476 performance-based restricted stock units to certain directors and management employees. The Compensation Committee made similar awards in prior periods. The awards vest
	G.	Stock-Based Compensation (continued)
	over specified periods. The following table summarizes performance-based restricted stock units as of September 27, 2014.
	Performance-Based		Number			Weighted-		Weighted-		Unrecognized				Aggregate
	Restricted Stock Units		of			Average		Average		Compensation				Intrinsic
			Stock			Grant Date		Remaining		Cost				Value
			Units			Value		Contractual
								Life
	Unvested, January 1, 2014		95,558			$	19.03
	Granted		39,476			24.64
	Forfeited		—			—
	Vested		(14,203	)		17.94
	Unvested, September 27, 2014		120,831			$	20.99	2.9 years		$	1,593			$	3,359
	Compensation cost for restricted stock awards is determined using a fair-value method and amortized on the straight-line recognition method over the requisite service period. Compensation expense on restricted stock awards totaled $478 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and $316 for the nine months ended September 28, 2013.
	We estimated the fair value of each stock-based award on the date of grant using a binomial option-pricing model. The binomial model considers a range of assumptions related to volatility, risk-free interest rate and employee exercise behavior. Expected volatilities utilized in the binomial model are based on historical volatility of our stock prices and other factors. Similarly, the dividend yield is based on historical experience and expected future changes. The binomial model also incorporates exercise and forfeiture assumptions based on an analysis of historical data. The expected life of the stock-based awards is derived from the output of the binomial model and represents the period of time that awards granted are expected to be outstanding.
	The fair values of stock-based awards granted were estimated at the dates of grant with the following weighted-average assumption.
		Nine Months Ended
		September 27,			September 28,
		2014			2013
	Volatility rate	11.2	%		11.3	%
	Risk-free interest rate	2.6	%		2.1	%
	Expected dividend yield	1.1	%		1.5	%
	Expected life of awards (years)	9.4			9.4
	G.	Stock-Based Compensation (continued)
	General Stock Option Information--The following table summarizes activity under the stock option plans for the nine months ended September 27, 2014.
	Stock Options		Number			Weighted-		Weighted-		Aggregate
			of			Average		Average		Intrinsic
			Options			Exercise		Remaining		Value
			Outstanding			Price		Contractual
								Life
	Outstanding, January 1, 2014		662,246			$	16.68
	Granted		183,500			26.4
	Exercised		(62,492	)		13.07
	Forfeited		—			—
	Outstanding, September 27, 2014		783,254			$	19.24	6.5 years		$	6,705
	Exercisable, September 27, 2014		329,950			$	14.34	4.1 years		$	4,440
	As of September 27, 2014, there was approximately $1,623 of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options outstanding. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.0 years. “Intrinsic value” is defined as the amount by which the market price of a common share exceeds the exercise price of an option.
Common shares are issued from treasury upon the exercise of stock options, stock-settled stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units or purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

Net_Periodic_Benefit_Cost_Defi

Net Periodic Benefit Cost - Defined Benefit Pension Plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'
Net periodic benefit cost--defined benefit pension plans [Text Block]	'
	Net Periodic Benefit Cost--Defined Benefit Pension Plans
	The results of operations included the following net periodic benefit cost recognized related to our defined-benefit pension plans.
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 27,			September 28,			September 27,			September 28,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Components of pension cost
	Service costs--increase in benefit obligation earned	$	12		$	55		$	38		$	166
	Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	405			379			1,214			1,136
	Expected return on plan assets	(499		)	(439		)	(1,495		)	(1,319		)
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	177			347			531			1,041
	Amortization of prior service cost	4			3			10			10
	Net pension cost of defined benefit pension plans	$	99		$	345		$	298		$	1,034
	Employer Contributions--Contributions of $1,175 were made to our defined-benefit pension plans during the nine months ended September 27, 2014. We expect, as of September 27, 2014, to make additional defined-benefit plan contributions totaling $250 before December 31, 2014.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income taxes [Text Block]	'
	Income Taxes
	Our income tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of our annual effective tax rate adjusted for discrete items, if any, that are taken into account in the relevant period. Each quarter we update our estimate of the annual effective tax rate and, if our estimated annual tax rate changes, we make a cumulative adjustment. The 2014 annual effective tax rate is estimated to approximate 38%.  Our annual effective tax rate for 2013 was 35.7%.
	At December 31, 2013, we had unrecognized tax benefits of $1,221, of which $942 would affect our effective rate if recognized, and accrued interest expense related to unrecognized benefits of $41. At September 27, 2014, there were no significant changes in the unrecognized tax benefits, including the amount that would affect our effective rate if recognized, or the accrued interest expense related to the unrecognized benefits. Unrecognized tax benefits are the differences between a tax position taken, or expected to be taken in a tax return, and the benefit recognized for financial reporting purposes.
	The Company is routinely under audit by federal, state, local and Canadian authorities in the area of income tax. These audits include questioning the timing and the amount of income and deductions and the allocation of income and deductions among various tax jurisdictions. During the fourth quarter 2013, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service completed its audit of the Company's U.S. income tax returns for 2010 and 2011 and, during 2010, Canada Revenue Agency completed its audit of the Company's Canadian operations for 2006, 2007 and 2008. With the exception of U.S. state jurisdictions, the Company is no longer subject to examination by tax authorities for the years through 2010. As of September 27, 2014, we believe it is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will not significantly increase or decrease.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [Text Block]	'
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Comprehensive income (or loss) is comprised of net income (or net loss) and other components, including currency translation adjustments and defined-benefit pension plan adjustments.
	The following summarizes the components of other comprehensive income (loss) accumulated in shareholders’ equity:
		Foreign			Defined			Accumulated
		Currency			Benefit			Other
		Translation			Pension			Comprehensive
		Adjustments			Plans			Income (Loss)
	Balance at January 1, 2014	$	1,647		$	(6,040	)	$	(4,393	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
	Unrealized losses	(1,266		)	—			(1,266		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—			541			541
	Tax effect	—			(205		)	(205		)
	Net of tax amount	(1,266		)	336			(930		)
	Balance at September 27, 2014	$	381		$	(5,704	)	$	(5,323	)
	The change in defined benefit pension plans of $541 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 is included in net periodic pension expense and is classified in the condensed statement of operations as costs and expenses, general and administrative.

Per_Share_Amounts_and_Common_S

Per Share Amounts and Common Shares Outstanding	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Per share amounts and common shares outstanding [Text Block]	'
	Per Share Amounts and Common Shares Outstanding
	We calculate our basic earnings per share by dividing net income or net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share are calculated in a similar manner, but include the effect of dilutive securities. To the extent these securities are antidilutive, they are excluded from the calculation of earnings per share. The per share amounts were computed as follows:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 27,		September 28,		September 27,		September 28,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Income available to common shareholders:
	Net income	$	9,657	$	8,644	$	19,692	$	17,468
	Weighted-average shares:
	Basic:
	Outstanding	13,307		13,583		13,382		13,680
	Partially-paid share subscriptions	121		137		363		407
	Basic weighted-average shares	13,428		13,720		13,745		14,087
	Diluted:
	Basic from above	13,428		13,720		13,745		14,087
	Incremental shares from assumed:
	Exercise of stock subscription purchase rights	77		59		55		35
	Exercise of stock options and awards	394		476		367		425
	Diluted weighted-average shares	13,899		14,255		14,167		14,547
	Net income per share:
	Basic	$	0.72	$	0.63	$	1.43	$	1.24
	Diluted	$	0.69	$	0.61	$	1.39	$	1.2
	Common Shares Outstanding--A summary of the activity of the common shares outstanding for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 follows:
	Shares outstanding at January 1, 2014	13,438,611
	Shares purchased	(498,684	)
	Shares sold	212,180
	Stock subscription offering -- cash purchases	41,247
	Options and awards exercised	92,632
		(152,625	)
	Shares outstanding at September 27, 2014	13,285,986
	K.	Per Share Amounts and Common Shares Outstanding (continued)
	On September 27, 2014, we had 13,285,986 common shares outstanding, employee and director options exercisable to purchase 329,950 common shares, partially-paid subscriptions for 485,115 common shares and purchase rights outstanding for 197,456 common shares.
	Stock Subscription Offering--Beginning May 2012, the Company offered to eligible employees and nonemployee directors the right to subscribe to common shares of the Company at $19.70 per share in accordance with the provisions of The Davey Tree Expert Company 2004 Omnibus Stock Plan and the rules of the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors (collectively, the "plan"). The offering period ended on August 1, 2012 and resulted in the subscription of 637,714 common shares for $12,563 at $19.70 per share.
	Under the plan, a participant in the offering purchasing common shares for an aggregate purchase price of less than $5 had to pay with cash. All participants (excluding Company directors and officers) purchasing $5 or more of the common shares had an option to finance their purchase through a down-payment of at least 10% of the total purchase price and a seven-year promissory note for the balance due with interest at 2%. Payments on the promissory note can be made either by payroll deductions or annual lump-sum payments of both principal and interest.
	Common shares purchased under the plan have been pledged as security for the payment of the promissory note and the common shares will not be issued until the promissory note is paid-in-full. Dividends will be paid on all subscribed shares, subject to forfeiture to the extent that payment is not ultimately made for the shares.
	All participants in the offering purchasing in excess of $5 of common shares were granted a "right" to purchase one additional common share at a price of $19.70 per share for every three common shares purchased under the plan. As a result of the stock subscription, employees were granted rights to purchase 211,800 common shares. Each right may be exercised at the rate of one-seventh per year and will expire seven years after the date that the right was granted. Employees may not exercise a right should they cease to be employed by the Company.

Operations_by_Business_Segment

Operations by Business Segment	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Operations by business segment [Text Block]	'
	Operations by Business Segment
	We provide a wide range of arboriculture, horticulture, environmental and consulting services to residential, utility, commercial and government entities throughout the United States and Canada. We have two reportable operating segments organized by type or class of customer: Residential and Commercial, and Utility.
	Residential and Commercial--Residential and Commercial provides services to our residential and commercial customers including: the treatment, preservation, maintenance, removal and planting of trees, shrubs and other plant life; the practice of landscaping, grounds maintenance, tree surgery, tree feeding and tree spraying; the application of fertilizer, herbicides and insecticides; and, natural resource management and consulting, forestry research and development, and environmental planning.
	Utility--Utility is principally engaged in providing services to our utility customers--investor-owned, municipal utilities, and rural electric cooperatives--including: the practice of line-clearing and vegetation management around power lines, rights-of-way and chemical brush control; and, natural resource management and consulting, forestry research and development, and environmental planning.
	L.    Operations by Business Segment (continued)
	All other operating activities, including research, technical support and laboratory diagnostic facilities, are included in “All Other.”
	Measurement of Segment Profit and Loss and Segment Assets--We evaluate performance and allocate resources based primarily on operating income and also actively manage business unit operating assets. Segment information, including reconciling adjustments, is presented consistent with the basis described in our 2013 Annual Report.
	Segment information reconciled to consolidated external reporting information follows:
		Utility		Residential and		All			Reconciling				Consolidated
				Commercial		Other			Adjustments
	Three Months Ended September 27, 2014
	Revenues	$	108,096	$	107,671	$	837		$	—			$	216,604
	Income (loss) from operations	5,725		13,421		(514		)	(1,488		)	(a)	17,144
	Interest expense								(676		)		(676		)
	Interest income								56				56
	Other income (expense), net								(1,112		)		(1,112		)
	Income before income taxes												$	15,412
	Segment assets, total	$	155,231	$	156,685	$	—		$	74,680		(b)	$	386,596
	Three Months Ended September 28, 2013
	Revenues	$	98,293	$	96,023	$	456		$	—			$	194,772
	Income (loss) from operations	3,573		12,670		(411		)	(951		)	(a)	14,881
	Interest expense								(711		)		(711		)
	Interest income								76				76
	Other income (expense), net								(713		)		(713		)
	Income before income taxes												$	13,533
	Segment assets, total	$	143,980	$	132,003	$	—		$	74,449		(b)	$	350,432
	Nine Months Ended September 27, 2014
	Revenues	$	296,230	$	288,990	$	1,954		$	—			$	587,174
	Income (loss) from operations	14,450		29,318		(4,121		)	(3,413		)	(a)	36,234
	Interest expense								(2,101		)		(2,101		)
	Interest income								201				201
	Other income (expense), net								(2,417		)		(2,417		)
	Income before income taxes												$	31,917
	Segment assets, total	$	155,231	$	156,685	$	—		$	74,680		(b)	$	386,596
	Nine Months Ended September 28, 2013
	Revenues	$	278,387	$	253,511	$	1,777		$	—			$	533,675
	Income (loss) from operations	8,580		27,774		(2,294		)	(1,958		)	(a)	32,102
	Interest expense								(2,052		)		(2,052		)
	Interest income								237				237
	Other income (expense), net								(2,022		)		(2,022		)
	Income before income taxes												$	28,265
	Segment assets, total	$	143,980	$	132,003	$	—		$	74,449		(b)	$	350,432
	L.    Operations by Business Segment (continued)
	Reconciling adjustments from segment reporting to consolidated external financial reporting include unallocated corporate items:
	(a)	Reclassification of depreciation expense and allocation of corporate expenses.
	(b)	Corporate assets include cash, prepaid expenses, corporate facilities, enterprise-wide information systems and other nonoperating assets.

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fi

Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments	'
	Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments
	Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.  Market participants are defined as buyers or sellers in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability that are independent of the reporting entity, knowledgeable, and able and willing to transact for the asset or liability.
	Valuation Hierarchy--A valuation hierarchy is used for presentation of the inputs to measure fair value.  This hierarchy prioritizes the inputs into three broad levels.  Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.  Level 2 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs used to measure assets and liabilities at fair value.  A financial asset or liability’s classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
	Our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 27, 2014, were as follows:
				Fair Value Measurements at
				September 27, 2014 Using:
	Assets and Liabilities Recorded at	Total		Quoted Prices			Significant		Significant
	Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Carrying		in			Other		Unobservable
		Value at		Active			Observable		Inputs
		September 27,		Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
		2014		(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	$	13,078	$	13,078		$	—	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Deferred compensation	$	1,400	$	—		$	1,400	$	—
	M.    Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments (continued)
	Our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 were as follows:
				Fair Value Measurements at
				December 31, 2013 Using:
	Assets and Liabilities Recorded at	Total		Quoted Prices			Significant		Significant
	Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Carrying		in			Other		Unobservable
		Value at		Active			Observable		Inputs
		December 31,		Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
		2013		(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	$	12,716	$	12,716		$	—	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Deferred compensation	$	1,144	$	—		$	1,144	$	—
	The assets invested for self-insurance are money market funds--classified as Level 1--based on quoted market prices of the identical underlying securities in active markets. The estimated fair value of the deferred compensation--classified as Level 2--is based on the value of the Company's common shares, determined by independent valuation.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments--Fair value information is required to be presented for all financial instruments, whether reported at fair value or historical carrying value.
	The fair values of our current assets and current liabilities, including cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses among others, approximate their reported carrying values because of their short-term nature. The assets invested for self-insurance are reported at fair value. Financial instruments classified as noncurrent liabilities and their carrying values and fair values were as follows:
		September 27, 2014					December 31, 2013
	Financial Instruments Recorded at	Carrying		Fair			Carrying		Fair
	Historical Carrying Value	Value		Value			Value		Value
	Revolving credit facility, noncurrent	$	54,600	$	54,600		$	20,000	$	20,000
	Senior unsecured notes	30,000		30,099			30,000		28,219
	Term loans, noncurrent	6,978		6,742			34		34
	Total	$	91,578	$	91,441		$	50,034	$	48,253
	The carrying value of our revolving credit facility approximates fair value as the interest rates on the amounts outstanding are variable. The fair value of our senior unsecured notes and our term loans is determined based on expected future weighted-average interest rates with the same remaining maturities--Level 2 inputs.
	M.    Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments (continued)
	Market Risk and Derivative Financial Instruments
	In the normal course of business, we are exposed to market risk related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, changes in interest rates and changes in fuel prices. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. We use derivative financial instruments from time-to-time to manage risks, in part, associated with changes in interest rates and changes in fuel prices.
	Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk--We are exposed to market risk related to foreign currency exchange rate risk resulting from our operations in Canada, where we provide a comprehensive range of horticultural services. Our financial results could be affected by factors such as changes in the foreign currency exchange rate or differing economic conditions in the Canadian markets as compared with the markets for our services in the United States. Our earnings are affected by translation exposures from currency fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar as compared to the Canadian dollar. Similarly, the Canadian dollar-denominated assets and liabilities may result in financial exposure as to the timing of transactions and the net asset / liability position of our Canadian operations. Presently, we do not engage in hedging activities related to our foreign currency rate risk.
	Interest Rate Risk--We are exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates on long-term debt obligations. We regularly monitor and measure our interest rate risk and, to the extent that we believe we are exposed, from time-to-time we have entered into interest rate swap contracts--derivative financial instruments--with the objective of altering interest rate exposures related to a portion of variable debt.
	Fuel Derivatives--From time-to-time we have entered into fuel derivatives as “economic hedges” related to fuel consumed by Davey Tree service vehicles. The objectives of the economic hedges are to fix the price of a portion of our fuel needs and mitigate the earnings and cash flow volatility attributable to the risk of changing prices.
	The following table sets forth quantitative information related to our derivative instruments and where amounts were recorded in our consolidated financial statements.
		Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
		September 27,		September 28,			September 27,		September 28,
		2014		2013			2014		2013
	Economic Hedges - Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
	Fuel Derivatives:
	Change in fair value, recognized in results of operations, as a (reduction) increase in operating costs and expenses	$	—	$	(92	)	$	—	$	(125	)
	As of September 27, 2014 we were not invested in, nor did we hold, any derivative contracts. And, during the fourth quarter 2013, all derivative contracts previously entered into expired.

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Contingencies [Text Block]	'
	Contingencies
	We are party to a number of lawsuits, threatened lawsuits and other claims arising out of the normal course of business.
	With respect to all such matters, we record an accrual for a loss contingency when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. In addition, narrative information is provided for matters as to which management believes a material loss is reasonably possible.
	Management assesses all such matters, including the matter described below, based on current information and makes judgments concerning their potential outcome, giving due consideration to the nature of the claim, the amount and nature of damages sought and the probability of success.  Management's judgment is made subject to the known uncertainty of litigation and management's judgment as to estimates made may prove materially different from actual results.
	California Fire Litigation: San Diego County--Davey Tree Surgery Company, a Davey subsidiary, and Davey Resource Group, a Davey division, along with the Company have previously been sued, together with a utility services customer, San Diego Gas & Electric ("SDG&E"), and its parent company, as defendants, and as cross-defendants in cross-complaints filed by SDG&E, in the Superior Court of the State of California in and for the County of San Diego, arising out of a wildfire in San Diego County that started on October 22, 2007, referred to as the Rice Canyon fire.
	Numerous lawsuits related to the Rice Canyon fire were filed against SDG&E, its parent company, Sempra Energy, and Davey. The earliest of the lawsuits naming Davey was filed on April 18, 2008. The Court ordered that the lawsuits be organized into four groups based on type of plaintiff, namely insurance subrogation claimants, individual/business claimants, governmental claimants, and plaintiffs seeking class certification. Plaintiffs motions seeking class certification were denied and the orders denying class certification were affirmed on appeal. SDG&E filed cross-complaints against Davey for contractual indemnity, declaratory relief, and breach of contract.
	During the third quarter 2012, Davey entered into a Settlement and Release Agreement (the “Agreement”) among Davey, SDG&E and Davey's insurers.
	Under the Agreement (a) Davey paid SDG&E an amount previously expensed and accrued as self-insurance, (b) Davey's insurers paid SDG&E amounts under Davey's insurance policies in effect during the period of the Rice Canyon fire, and (c) SDG&E dismissed its cross-complaints against Davey and agreed to defend and hold harmless Davey from any and all claims that are currently asserted against Davey.

Basis_of_Financial_Statement_P1

Basis of Financial Statement Preparation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	The condensed consolidated financial statements present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of The Davey Tree Expert Company and its subsidiaries. When we refer to “we,” “us,” “our,” “Davey,” or “Davey Tree”, we mean The Davey Tree Expert Company and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context indicates otherwise.
	We have prepared the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), as codified in the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC"), and with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial information. The consolidated financial statements include all adjustments which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Certain information and disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. We suggest that these condensed consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 (the “2013 Annual Report”).
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Use of Estimates in Financial Statement Preparation--The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts. Our consolidated financial statements include amounts that are based on management’s best estimates and judgments.  Estimates are used for, but not limited to, accounts receivable valuation, depreciable lives of fixed assets, self-insurance accruals, income taxes and revenue recognition. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Our income tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of our annual effective tax rate adjusted for discrete items, if any, that are taken into account in the relevant period. Each quarter we update our estimate of the annual effective tax rate and, if our estimated annual tax rate changes, we make a cumulative adjustment.
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	We calculate our basic earnings per share by dividing net income or net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share are calculated in a similar manner, but include the effect of dilutive securities. To the extent these securities are antidilutive, they are excluded from the calculation of earnings per share.
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Measurement of Segment Profit and Loss and Segment Assets--We evaluate performance and allocate resources based primarily on operating income and also actively manage business unit operating assets. Segment information, including reconciling adjustments, is presented consistent with the basis described in our 2013 Annual Report.
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	We are party to a number of lawsuits, threatened lawsuits and other claims arising out of the normal course of business.
	With respect to all such matters, we record an accrual for a loss contingency when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. In addition, narrative information is provided for matters as to which management believes a material loss is reasonably possible.
	Management assesses all such matters, including the matter described below, based on current information and makes judgments concerning their potential outcome, giving due consideration to the nature of the claim, the amount and nature of damages sought and the probability of success.  Management's judgment is made subject to the known uncertainty of litigation and management's judgment as to estimates made may prove materially different from actual results.

Accounts_Receivable_Net_and_Su1

Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance-Sheet Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance Sheet Information [Abstract]	'
Accounts receivable, net [Table Text Block]	'
	ccounts receivable, net, consisted of the following:
	Accounts receivable, net	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Accounts receivable	$	102,524	$	93,156
	Receivables under contractual arrangements	27,213		14,309
		129,737		107,465
	Less allowances for doubtful accounts	2,058		2,209
	Accounts receivable, net	$	127,679	$	105,256
Other current assets [Table Text Block]	'
	The following comprise the amounts included in the balance sheet:
	Other current assets	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Refundable income taxes	$	—	$	5,317
	Deferred income taxes	7,715		7,715
	Prepaid expenses	18,742		11,393
	Other	291		813
	Total	$	26,748	$	25,238
Accrued expenses [Table Text Block]	'
	Accrued expenses	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Employee compensation	$	18,571	$	18,578
	Accrued compensated absences	7,407		6,953
	Self-insured medical claims	2,320		2,503
	Customer advances, deposits	719		2,191
	Taxes, other than income	1,847		5,730
	Other	249		903
	Total	$	31,113	$	36,858
Other current liabilities [Table Text Block]	'
	Other current liabilities	September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Current portion of:
	Long-term debt	$	12,382	$	8,434
	Self-insurance accruals	22,461		22,057
	Other	776		—
	Total	$	35,619	$	30,491

Identified_Intangible_Assets_a1

Identified Intangible Assets and Goodwill, Net (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of identified intangible assets and goodwill, net [Table Text Block]	'
	The carrying amounts of the identified intangibles and goodwill acquired in connection with our historical investments in businesses were as follows:
		September 27, 2014				December 31, 2013
	Identified Intangible Assets and Goodwill, Net	Carrying		Accumulated		Carrying		Accumulated
		Amount		Amortization		Amount		Amortization
	Amortized intangible assets:
	Customer lists/relationships	$	16,344	$	12,263	$	14,429	$	11,398
	Employment-related	6,601		5,664		5,631		5,474
	Tradenames	5,312		4,067		4,525		3,754
	Amortized intangible assets	$	28,257	$	21,994	$	24,585	$	20,626
	Less accumulated amortization	21,994				20,626
	Identified intangibles, net	6,263				3,959
	Unamortized intangible assets:
	Goodwill	28,203				23,602
		$	34,466			$	27,561

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of long-term debt [Table Text Block]	'
	Our long-term debt consisted of the following:
		September 27,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Revolving credit facility
	Swing-line borrowings	$	6,600	$	—
	LIBOR borrowings	48,000		20,000
		54,600		20,000
	Senior unsecured notes	30,000		30,000
	Term loans	19,360		8,468
		103,960		58,468
	Less current portion	12,382		8,434
		$	91,578	$	50,034

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of stock-based compensation expense under all share-based payment plans [Table Text Block]	'
	Stock-based compensation expense under all share-based payment plans -- our Employee Stock Purchase Plan, stock option plans, stock-settled stock appreciation rights and performance-based restricted stock units -- included in the results of operations follows:
		Three months ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 27,				September 28,		September 27,				September 28,
		2014				2013		2014				2013
	Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	$	497			$	342	$	1,389			$	1,018
Schedule of share-based compensation, stock-settled stock appreciation rights award activity [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes our SSARs as of September 27, 2014.
	Stock-Settled		Number			Weighted-		Weighted-		Unrecognized				Aggregate
	Stock Appreciation Rights		of			Average		Average		Compensation				Intrinsic
			Rights			Award Date		Remaining		Cost				Value
						Value		Contractual
								Life
	Unvested, January 1, 2014		283,453			$	3.15
	Granted		127,050			4.88
	Forfeited		—			—
	Vested		(95,072	)		3.18
	Unvested, September 27, 2014		315,431			$	3.84	2.3 years		$	954			$	8,769
	Employee SSARs		298,454			$	3.92	2.3 years		$	922			$	8,297
	Nonemployee Director SSARs		16,977			$	2.29	2.1 years		$	32			$	472
Schedule of share-based compensation, performance-based restricted stock units award activity [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes performance-based restricted stock units as of September 27, 2014.
	Performance-Based		Number			Weighted-		Weighted-		Unrecognized				Aggregate
	Restricted Stock Units		of			Average		Average		Compensation				Intrinsic
			Stock			Grant Date		Remaining		Cost				Value
			Units			Value		Contractual
								Life
	Unvested, January 1, 2014		95,558			$	19.03
	Granted		39,476			24.64
	Forfeited		—			—
	Vested		(14,203	)		17.94
	Unvested, September 27, 2014		120,831			$	20.99	2.9 years		$	1,593			$	3,359
Schedule of share-based payment award, stock options, valuation assumptions [Table Text Block]	'
	The fair values of stock-based awards granted were estimated at the dates of grant with the following weighted-average assumption.
		Nine Months Ended
		September 27,			September 28,
		2014			2013
	Volatility rate	11.2	%		11.3	%
	Risk-free interest rate	2.6	%		2.1	%
	Expected dividend yield	1.1	%		1.5	%
	Expected life of awards (years)	9.4			9.4
Schedule of share-based compensation, stock options activity [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes activity under the stock option plans for the nine months ended September 27, 2014.
	Stock Options		Number			Weighted-		Weighted-		Aggregate
			of			Average		Average		Intrinsic
			Options			Exercise		Remaining		Value
			Outstanding			Price		Contractual
								Life
	Outstanding, January 1, 2014		662,246			$	16.68
	Granted		183,500			26.4
	Exercised		(62,492	)		13.07
	Forfeited		—			—
	Outstanding, September 27, 2014		783,254			$	19.24	6.5 years		$	6,705
	Exercisable, September 27, 2014		329,950			$	14.34	4.1 years		$	4,440

Net_Periodic_Benefit_Cost_Defi1

Net Periodic Benefit Cost - Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'
Schedule of defined benefit pension plans, components of pesion cost [Table Text Block]	'
	The results of operations included the following net periodic benefit cost recognized related to our defined-benefit pension plans.
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 27,			September 28,			September 27,			September 28,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Components of pension cost
	Service costs--increase in benefit obligation earned	$	12		$	55		$	38		$	166
	Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	405			379			1,214			1,136
	Expected return on plan assets	(499		)	(439		)	(1,495		)	(1,319		)
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	177			347			531			1,041
	Amortization of prior service cost	4			3			10			10
	Net pension cost of defined benefit pension plans	$	99		$	345		$	298		$	1,034

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]	'
Schedule of other comprehensive income (loss) [Table Text Block]	'
	The following summarizes the components of other comprehensive income (loss) accumulated in shareholders’ equity:
		Foreign			Defined			Accumulated
		Currency			Benefit			Other
		Translation			Pension			Comprehensive
		Adjustments			Plans			Income (Loss)
	Balance at January 1, 2014	$	1,647		$	(6,040	)	$	(4,393	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
	Unrealized losses	(1,266		)	—			(1,266		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—			541			541
	Tax effect	—			(205		)	(205		)
	Net of tax amount	(1,266		)	336			(930		)
	Balance at September 27, 2014	$	381		$	(5,704	)	$	(5,323	)

Per_Share_Amounts_and_Common_S1

Per Share Amounts and Common Shares Outstanding (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of earnings per share, basic and diluted [Table Text Block]	'
	The per share amounts were computed as follows:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 27,		September 28,		September 27,		September 28,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Income available to common shareholders:
	Net income	$	9,657	$	8,644	$	19,692	$	17,468
	Weighted-average shares:
	Basic:
	Outstanding	13,307		13,583		13,382		13,680
	Partially-paid share subscriptions	121		137		363		407
	Basic weighted-average shares	13,428		13,720		13,745		14,087
	Diluted:
	Basic from above	13,428		13,720		13,745		14,087
	Incremental shares from assumed:
	Exercise of stock subscription purchase rights	77		59		55		35
	Exercise of stock options and awards	394		476		367		425
	Diluted weighted-average shares	13,899		14,255		14,167		14,547
	Net income per share:
	Basic	$	0.72	$	0.63	$	1.43	$	1.24
	Diluted	$	0.69	$	0.61	$	1.39	$	1.2
Schedule of common shares outstanding [Table Text Block]	'
	A summary of the activity of the common shares outstanding for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 follows:
	Shares outstanding at January 1, 2014	13,438,611
	Shares purchased	(498,684	)
	Shares sold	212,180
	Stock subscription offering -- cash purchases	41,247
	Options and awards exercised	92,632
		(152,625	)
	Shares outstanding at September 27, 2014	13,285,986

Operations_by_Business_Segment1

Operations by Business Segment (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Schedule of segment reporting information, by segment [Table Text Block]	'
		Utility		Residential and		All			Reconciling				Consolidated
				Commercial		Other			Adjustments
	Three Months Ended September 27, 2014
	Revenues	$	108,096	$	107,671	$	837		$	—			$	216,604
	Income (loss) from operations	5,725		13,421		(514		)	(1,488		)	(a)	17,144
	Interest expense								(676		)		(676		)
	Interest income								56				56
	Other income (expense), net								(1,112		)		(1,112		)
	Income before income taxes												$	15,412
	Segment assets, total	$	155,231	$	156,685	$	—		$	74,680		(b)	$	386,596
	Three Months Ended September 28, 2013
	Revenues	$	98,293	$	96,023	$	456		$	—			$	194,772
	Income (loss) from operations	3,573		12,670		(411		)	(951		)	(a)	14,881
	Interest expense								(711		)		(711		)
	Interest income								76				76
	Other income (expense), net								(713		)		(713		)
	Income before income taxes												$	13,533
	Segment assets, total	$	143,980	$	132,003	$	—		$	74,449		(b)	$	350,432
	Nine Months Ended September 27, 2014
	Revenues	$	296,230	$	288,990	$	1,954		$	—			$	587,174
	Income (loss) from operations	14,450		29,318		(4,121		)	(3,413		)	(a)	36,234
	Interest expense								(2,101		)		(2,101		)
	Interest income								201				201
	Other income (expense), net								(2,417		)		(2,417		)
	Income before income taxes												$	31,917
	Segment assets, total	$	155,231	$	156,685	$	—		$	74,680		(b)	$	386,596
	Nine Months Ended September 28, 2013
	Revenues	$	278,387	$	253,511	$	1,777		$	—			$	533,675
	Income (loss) from operations	8,580		27,774		(2,294		)	(1,958		)	(a)	32,102
	Interest expense								(2,052		)		(2,052		)
	Interest income								237				237
	Other income (expense), net								(2,022		)		(2,022		)
	Income before income taxes												$	28,265
	Segment assets, total	$	143,980	$	132,003	$	—		$	74,449		(b)	$	350,432
	L.    Operations by Business Segment (continued)
	Reconciling adjustments from segment reporting to consolidated external financial reporting include unallocated corporate items:
	(a)	Reclassification of depreciation expense and allocation of corporate expenses.
	(b)	Corporate assets include cash, prepaid expenses, corporate facilities, enterprise-wide information systems and other nonoperating assets.

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fi1

Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis [Table Text Block]	'
	Our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 27, 2014, were as follows:
				Fair Value Measurements at
				September 27, 2014 Using:
	Assets and Liabilities Recorded at	Total		Quoted Prices			Significant		Significant
	Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Carrying		in			Other		Unobservable
		Value at		Active			Observable		Inputs
		September 27,		Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
		2014		(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	$	13,078	$	13,078		$	—	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Deferred compensation	$	1,400	$	—		$	1,400	$	—
	M.    Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments (continued)
	Our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 were as follows:
				Fair Value Measurements at
				December 31, 2013 Using:
	Assets and Liabilities Recorded at	Total		Quoted Prices			Significant		Significant
	Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Carrying		in			Other		Unobservable
		Value at		Active			Observable		Inputs
		December 31,		Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
		2013		(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	$	12,716	$	12,716		$	—	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Deferred compensation	$	1,144	$	—		$	1,144	$	—
Financial instruments recorded at historical carrying value [Table Text Block]	'
	Financial instruments classified as noncurrent liabilities and their carrying values and fair values were as follows:
		September 27, 2014					December 31, 2013
	Financial Instruments Recorded at	Carrying		Fair			Carrying		Fair
	Historical Carrying Value	Value		Value			Value		Value
	Revolving credit facility, noncurrent	$	54,600	$	54,600		$	20,000	$	20,000
	Senior unsecured notes	30,000		30,099			30,000		28,219
	Term loans, noncurrent	6,978		6,742			34		34
	Total	$	91,578	$	91,441		$	50,034	$	48,253
Schedule of derivative instruments in statement of financial position, fair value [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table sets forth quantitative information related to our derivative instruments and where amounts were recorded in our consolidated financial statements.
		Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
		September 27,		September 28,			September 27,		September 28,
		2014		2013			2014		2013
	Economic Hedges - Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
	Fuel Derivatives:
	Change in fair value, recognized in results of operations, as a (reduction) increase in operating costs and expenses	$	—	$	(92	)	$	—	$	(125	)

Accounts_Receivable_Net_and_Su2

Accounts Receivable, Net and Supplemental Balance-Sheet Information (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts receivable, net	'	'
Accounts receivable	$102,524	$93,156
Receivables under contractual arrangements	27,213	14,309
Accounts receivable, gross	129,737	107,465
Less allowances for doubtful accounts	2,058	2,209
Accounts receivable, net	127,679	105,256
Other current assets	'	'
Refundable income taxes	0	5,317
Deferred income taxes	7,715	7,715
Prepaid expenses	18,742	11,393
Other	291	813
Total	26,748	25,238
Accrued expenses	'	'
Employee compensation	18,571	18,578
Accrued compensated absences	7,407	6,953
Self-insured medical claims	2,320	2,503
Customer advances, deposits	719	2,191
Taxes, other than income	1,847	5,730
Other	249	903
Total	31,113	36,858
Other current liabilities	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	12,382	8,434
Current portion of self-insurance accruals	22,461	22,057
Other	776	0
Other current liabilities	$35,619	$30,491

Business_Combinations_Details

Business Combinations (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'	'
Investment in businesses	$12,702	$110
Liabilities assumed	1,078	0
Debt issued	2,080	30
Tangible assets acquired	4,395	'
Intangible assets acquired, including goodwill	$8,307	'

Identified_Intangible_Assets_a2

Identified Intangible Assets and Goodwill, Net (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Identified intangible assets, gross	$28,257	$24,585
Accumulated amortization	21,994	20,626
Identified intangible assets, net	6,263	3,959
Goodwill	28,203	23,602
Identified intangible assets and goodwill, net	34,466	27,561
Customer lists/relationships [Member]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Identified intangible assets, gross	16,344	14,429
Accumulated amortization	12,263	11,398
Employment-related [Member]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Identified intangible assets, gross	6,601	5,631
Accumulated amortization	5,664	5,474
Tradenames [Member]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Identified intangible assets, gross	5,312	4,525
Accumulated amortization	$4,067	$3,754

LongTerm_Debt_LongTerm_Debt_De

Long-Term Debt Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Revolving credit facility	$54,600	$20,000
Senior unsecured notes	30,000	30,000
Term loans	19,360	8,468
Long-term debt	103,960	58,468
Less current portion	12,382	8,434
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities	91,578	50,034
Swing-line borrowings [Member]	'	'
Swing-line borrowings	6,600	0
LIBOR borrowings [Member]	'	'
LIBOR borrowings	$48,000	$20,000

LongTerm_Debt_Narrative_Detail

Long-Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified			Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]	Line of credit [Member]	Line of credit [Member]	Line of credit [Member]	Line of credit [Member]	Line of credit [Member]	Letter of credit [Member]	Swing-line borrowings [Member]
						London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]	Base Rate, Federal Funds [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]
								London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]	London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	$175,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$15,000
Letter of credit, sublimit	100,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	210,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unused commitments under credit facility	67,614	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Committed under credit facility	'	'	'	'	107,386	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revolving credit facility borrowings	54,600	20,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Letters of credit issued	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	52,786	'
Outstanding borrowings interest rate margin adjustment, range	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0.75%	1.50%	'	'
Debt instrument, variable rate, base rate calculation	'	'	'	'	'	1.50%	0.50%	'	'	'	'
Line of credit facility, commitment fee percentage	'	'	0.10%	0.25%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Senior unsecured notes	$30,000	$30,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Senior unsecured notes, interest rate	5.09%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of principal payments	5	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Anniversary when principal payments begin	6	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	$497	$342	$1,389	$1,018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Volatility rate	'	'	11.20%	11.30%
Risk free interest rate	'	'	2.60%	2.10%
Expected dividend yield	'	'	1.10%	1.50%
Expected life of awards (years)	'	'	'9 years 4 months 24 days	'9 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Outstanding, beginning balance	'	'	662,246	'
Granted	'	'	183,500	'
Exercised	'	'	-62,492	'
Forfeited	'	'	0	'
Outstanding, ending balance	783,254	'	783,254	'
Exercisable, ending balance	329,950	'	329,950	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Outstanding, weighted average exercise price, beginning balance	'	'	$16.68	'
Granted, weighted average exercise price	'	'	$26.40	'
Exercised, weighted average exercise price	'	'	$13.07	'
Forfeited, weighted average exercise price	'	'	$0	'
Outstanding, weighted average exercise price, ending balance	$19.24	'	$19.24	'
Exercisable, weighted average exercise price, ending balance	$14.34	'	$14.34	'
Outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	'	'	'6 years 5 months 16 days	'
Exercisable, weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	'	'	'4 years 26 days	'
Outstanding, aggregate intrinsic value	6,705	'	6,705	'
Exercisable, aggregate intrinsic value	4,440	'	4,440	'
Outstanding, unrecognized compensation cost	1,623	'	1,623	'
Employee service share-based compensation, nonvested awards, total compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition	'	'	'2 years 11 months 23 days	'
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Employee stock purchase plan, service period	'	'	'1 year	'
Employee stock purchase plan, percentage of market price, Purchase Date	'	'	85.00%	'
Employee stock purchase, discount from market price, purchase date	'	'	15.00%	'
Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	'	'	330	307
Stock Options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock options awarded, vesting period (years)	'	'	'10 years	'
Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	'	'	285	162
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	'	'	296	233
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, award vesting period	'	'	'5 years	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, beginning balance	'	'	283,453	'
Granted	'	'	127,050	'
Forfeited	'	'	0	'
Vested	'	'	-95,072	'
Unvested, ending balance	315,431	'	315,431	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, weighted average award date value, beginning balance	'	'	$3.15	'
Granted, weighted average award date value	'	'	$4.88	'
Forfeited, weighted average award date value	'	'	$0	'
Vested, weighted average award date value	'	'	$3.18	'
Unvested, weighted average award date value, ending balance	$3.84	'	$3.84	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	'	'	'2 years 3 months 18 days	'
Unrecognized compensation cost	954	'	954	'
Aggregate intrinsic value	8,769	'	8,769	'
Employee SSARs [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, ending balance	298,454	'	298,454	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, weighted average award date value, ending balance	$3.92	'	$3.92	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	'	'	'2 years 3 months 18 days	'
Unrecognized compensation cost	922	'	922	'
Aggregate intrinsic value	8,297	'	8,297	'
Nonemployee Director SSARs [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, ending balance	16,977	'	16,977	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, weighted average award date value, ending balance	$2.29	'	$2.29	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	'	'	'2 years 1 month 6 days	'
Unrecognized compensation cost	32	'	32	'
Aggregate intrinsic value	472	'	472	'
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Compensation expense, all share-based payment plans	'	'	478	316
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, beginning balance	'	'	95,558	'
Granted	'	'	39,476	'
Forfeited	'	'	0	'
Vested	'	'	-14,203	'
Unvested, ending balance	120,831	'	120,831	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Unvested, weighted average award date value, beginning balance	'	'	$19.03	'
Granted, weighted average award date value	'	'	$24.64	'
Forfeited, weighted average award date value	'	'	$0	'
Vested, weighted average award date value	'	'	$17.94	'
Unvested, weighted average award date value, ending balance	$20.99	'	$20.99	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	'	'	'2 years 10 months 24 days	'
Unrecognized compensation cost	1,593	'	1,593	'
Aggregate intrinsic value	$3,359	'	$3,359	'
Maximum new shares [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, percentage of outstanding stock maximum	'	'	5.00%	'
Maximum cumulative shares [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, percentage of outstanding stock maximum	'	'	10.00%	'

Net_Periodic_Benefit_Cost_Defi2

Net Periodic Benefit Cost - Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Details) (Pension plans, defined benefit [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Pension plans, defined benefit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Service costs--increase in benefit obligation earned	$12	$55	$38	$166
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	405	379	1,214	1,136
Expected return on plan assets	-499	-439	-1,495	-1,319
Amortization of net actuarial loss	177	347	531	1,041
Amortization of prior service cost	4	3	10	10
Net pension cost of defined benefit pension plans	99	345	298	1,034
Contributions by employer	'	'	1,175	'
Estimated future employer contributions in current fiscal year	'	'	$250	'

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	Rate	Rate
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Effective income tax rate	38.00%	35.70%
Unrecognized tax benefits	$1,221	$1,221
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	942	942
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest on income taxes accrued	$41	$41

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at January 1, 2014	($4,393)
Unrealized losses	-1,266
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	541
Tax effect	-205
Net of tax amount	-930
Balance at September 27, 2014	-5,323
Accumulated defined benefit plans adjustment [member]	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at January 1, 2014	-6,040
Unrealized losses	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	541
Tax effect	-205
Net of tax amount	336
Balance at September 27, 2014	-5,704
Foreign currencty translation adjustments [Member]	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at January 1, 2014	1,647
Unrealized losses	-1,266
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	0
Tax effect	0
Net of tax amount	-1,266
Balance at September 27, 2014	$381

Per_Share_Amounts_and_Common_S2

Per Share Amounts and Common Shares Outstanding (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$9,657	$8,644	$19,692	$17,468
Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic	13,307,000	13,583,000	13,382,000	13,680,000
Weighted-average shares, partially-paid share subscriptions	121,000	137,000	363,000	407,000
Basic weighted average shares	13,428,000	13,720,000	13,745,000	14,087,000
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of stock subscription purchase rights	77,000	59,000	55,000	35,000
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of stock options and awards	394,000	476,000	367,000	425,000
Diluted weighted-average shares	13,899,000	14,255,000	14,167,000	14,547,000
Basic	$0.72	$0.63	$1.43	$1.24
Diluted	$0.69	$0.61	$1.39	$1.20
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Shares outstanding at January 1, 2014	'	'	13,438,611	'
Shares purchased	'	'	-498,684	'
Shares sold	'	'	212,180	'
Stock subscription offering -- cash purchases	'	'	41,247	'
Options and awards exercised	'	'	92,632	'
Change in shares outstanding	'	'	-152,625	'
Shares outstanding at September 27, 2014	13,285,986	'	13,285,986	'
Employee and director options exercisable	329,950	'	329,950	'
Partially-paid subscriptions	485,115	'	485,115	'
Purchase rights outstanding	197,456	'	197,456	'

Per_Share_Amounts_and_Common_S3

Per Share Amounts and Common Shares Outstanding Stock subscription (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Stock subscription offering, subscription price	$19.70
Stock subscription offering, number of shares subscribed	637,714
stock subscription offering, value of shares subscribed	$12,563,000
Stock subscription offering, minimum financed amount	5,000
Stock subscription offering, down payment	10.00%
Stock subscription offering, term (in years)	'7 years
Stock subscription offering interest rate	2.00%
Stock subscription offering, minimum amount to receive right	$5,000
Stock subscription offering, number of shares purchased to receive one right	3
Stock subscription offering, number of rights issued	211,800
Stock subscription offering, right expiration term (in years)	'P7Y
Stock subscription offering, portion exercisable per year	14.29%

Operations_by_Business_Segment2

Operations by Business Segment (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014		Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 27, 2014		Sep. 28, 2013		Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'		'
Number of reportable segments	'		'		2		'		'
Revenues	$216,604		$194,772		$587,174		$533,675		'
Income (loss) from operations	17,144		14,881		36,234		32,102		'
Interest expense	-676		-711		-2,101		-2,052		'
Interest income	56		76		201		237		'
Other income (expense), net	-1,112		-713		-2,417		-2,022		'
Income before income taxes	15,412		13,533		31,917		28,265		'
Segment assets, total	386,596		350,432		386,596		350,432		333,378
Utility services [Member]	'		'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'		'
Revenues	108,096		98,293		296,230		278,387		'
Income (loss) from operations	5,725		3,573		14,450		8,580		'
Segment assets, total	155,231		143,980		155,231		143,980		'
Residential commercial services [Member]	'		'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'		'
Revenues	107,671		96,023		288,990		253,511		'
Income (loss) from operations	13,421		12,670		29,318		27,774		'
Segment assets, total	156,685		132,003		156,685		132,003		'
All other [Member]	'		'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'		'
Revenues	837		456		1,954		1,777		'
Income (loss) from operations	-514		-411		-4,121		-2,294		'
Segment assets, total	0		0		0		0		'
Reconciling adjustments [Member]	'		'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'		'
Revenues	0		0		0		0		'
Income (loss) from operations	-1,488	[1]	-951	[1]	-3,413	[1]	-1,958	[1]	'
Interest expense	-676		-711		-2,101		-2,052		'
Interest income	56		76		201		237		'
Other income (expense), net	-1,112		-713		-2,417		-2,022		'
Segment assets, total	$74,680	[2]	$74,449	[2]	$74,680	[2]	$74,449	[2]	'
[1]	(a)Reclassification of depreciation expense and allocation of corporate expenses.
[2]	(b)Corporate assets include cash, prepaid expenses, corporate facilities, enterprise-wide information systems and other nonoperating assets.

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fi2

Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments (Details) (Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member], USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Quoted prices in active markets (Level 1) [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	$13,078	$12,716
Deferred compensation	0	0
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	0	0
Deferred compensation	1,400	1,144
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	0	0
Deferred compensation	0	0
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets invested for self-insurance, classified as other assets, noncurrent	13,078	12,716
Deferred compensation	$1,400	$1,144

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fi3

Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified			Carrying Value [Member]	Carrying Value [Member]	Fair Value [Member]	Fair Value [Member]	Change During Period, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]	Change During Period, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]	Change During Period, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]	Change During Period, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revolving credit facility, noncurrent	$54,600	$20,000	$54,600	$20,000	$54,600	$20,000	'	'	'	'
Senior unsecured notes	30,000	30,000	30,000	30,000	30,099	28,219	'	'	'	'
Term loans, noncurrent	'	'	6,978	34	6,742	34	'	'	'	'
Long term debt	'	'	91,578	50,034	91,441	48,253	'	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Change in fair value, recognized in results of operations, as a (reduction) increase in operating costs and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	$0	($92)	$0	($125)