METAL ROOFING, how to find/get the best but not pay more than for asphalt shingles.?

A lot of shingles that are architectural rated, cost out of the wazoo. I was wondering if I could get someone (and are commercial builders the best) to put on a metal roof for about the same cost as a good asphalt roof? I hear it takes less skill, and less time, and the materials don’t really cost that much more…that it’s just that metal is "in" now that is making it so much more costly.

Any ideas how I should approach the contractor, without ticking them off, to inquire about getting it done for the same price?

I want to put a roof on and be done with it. I am wondering if metal is the way to go. But I am hearing about nails/ screws backing up! Paint peeling off!

Now, I am reading, all these years I should have been having my roof inspected yearly to make sure the warranty stayed in effect!!! AND that I am going to have to have this done for either asphalt OR metal roofing! How much should this cost?

I am in the southeast.

How much should roofing cost by the square foot to put on? I have a very low pitch ranch home, about 1700 sq feet. Only one valley. One chimney on the end. Built about 1970.

I think the plywood under the existing shingles is about 1/2 inch. Should I get it replaced? What is code now?

Since my home is older, are there any upgrades I should make while the roof is off to make it more energy efficient, or stronger?

Know I have asked a lot of questions, but I will appreciate your help and knowledge very much and share it where I can in the future. So you will help more than me.

Thank you.

One question you may ask is your home owners insurance guy. The rates for metal roof may be cheaper than asphalt shingles. The cost, if more for a metal roof may be cheaper on insurance.

Metal Roofing Installation and Metal Roofing Materials from DECRA