> By the way, the gutters were replaced back in 1975, so
 > another question is, how can we tell when it's really
 > best to replace them again?
 [----------^^^^ you said the above ^^^^-----------]
Gutters are easy, but access is what causes the difficulty. Basically, you 
put the gutters on some angle to allow rain runoff to follow the lowest 
point, minus any blockage. Looking at old gutters, 1st check to see any 
apparent obvious damage, look for low points not near the down spout and any 
holes, cracks, leaks, etc. Then proceed to to assure "tightess" meaning, it's 
not loose at any anchor points and each connection to each other. if you have 
older metal gutters, many times they were grouted/soldered at the gutter 
links to lessen any leaks there. Look for mold or mildew around areas that 
are showing excess standing water or drips. However older homes may need to 
replace the roof drip edge and the wood trim where the gutter anchors. 
Besides the actual gutter replacement, here is where any extra expense comes 
into play so don't be too alarmed if it adds to the overall cost. If you like 
to do it yourself, this is an easy job provided you follow what was present 
before. good luck -_-_-Bill
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