Robin,
I used to deer hunt out of a Bakker for years. Would set up early November and take down Mid January, also used as a base camp in Spring for a few weeks when Timber romping. Canvak will have a unique smell until dry and add some weight to your lodge. However, when I used a 2 gallon pump sprayer to the roof and let it dry it was fantastic at keeping rain and snow melt out of the tent. It works pretty well. I have heard of folks applying with a stiff brush - I never did. I just sprayed it on, set up the tent and let the Canvak set up. In a couple days the odor was gone, tent was dry - breathable and water tight .
Good luck.
Bob.