Speaking of top of the rudder/vertical, that was the spot i had slight hanger/garage rash. I was backing my plane in the garage before lowering the tail on the trailer. Luckily it only lacked about 1/4" so it wasnt very noticable and i didnt have to repair. My preference was balsa wood that i used everywhere except the top of the rudder/vertical, where i used foam. I still recommend balsa.