So my car is currently being disassembled and prepped for paint. My painter said that he'd like to remove the long chrome/nickel (not sure what its made of) trim work that follows the edge of the roofline. But he is scared it will bend if it's removed. It's stuck on there pretty tight. Looks like there is a rivet as well.

Question,
Is there an easier way to remove it without messing it up?

also,

If we do mess it up, where the heck can I find a replacement for it that won't cost an arm and a leg. thanks!