Highly alkaline materials can burn skin and deteriorate metals. However, as the concrete ages, the alkalinity on the surface usually decreases. The result can be deterioration and eventual failure of the adhesive as well as staining in the floor. Either of these products can be purchased at a flooring supply or home store. The calcium chloride test involves placing a pre-measured canister of calcium chloride, an absorbent salt, on the concrete floor and covering it with a small plastic dome supplied with the kit.
Calcium chloride absorbs moisture from the air at a known, fixed rate.
Each vinyl flooring manufacturer has a maximum acceptable level for this figure. The concrete alkaline test kit is similar to its a swimming pool test kit. The concrete surface should be clean and stripped of any coatings. If necessary, you can use adhesive removers or a rotary floor sander to clean the surface. Concrete tends to be alkaline, but the surface has the lowest alkalinity due to aging.