WTD:Advice on canoe rebuild

What type of wood should I use to replace the top rails and end joiners on a cedar strip canoe? Cedar is the obvious choice, but I don't believe it is used on these pieces. I plan on sandwiching the hull (cedar ribs and exterior panels) in-between two rails, and fasten together with brass or galvanized screws.

The previous owner covered the hull in a layer of fiberglass cloth and resin. This made a tough but rough surface. I plan on sanding the resin/cloth smooth, applying a thin coat of resin, then paint. I am concerned that fiberglass fibers will not sand off smoothly, leaving me to scrape fibers for countless hours before I can apply a resin coat. Any experience or ideas in this area ?

Any advice on refinishing the interior cedar surfaces? I am not sure if I will use stripper, or simply sand off loose varnish before applying new coat(Polyethylene?).

Thanks in advance.

Sounds like not enough fibreglass liquid was applied. How about applying another layer of fibreglass liquid, just brush it on. It should result in a very smooth layer that you would only have to sand a bit b4 painting. Varathane paint is a good choice as it is quite durable.

I have a fibreglass canu and just did part of the keel tonight the resulting glasses area is very strong and smooth, very little sanding will be required to complete it. paint, etc.