I came across a series of posts from 2014 on this forum relating to UAC problems and resolving corrupted permissions in a Windows 7 Home Premium installation. The post was titled "Half way there..." (
http://www.tweaking.com/forums/index.php/topic,2190.0.html). For the last week I've had exactly the problem described and tried every solution I could find on the web without success. In 3 hours tonight with the use of the latest version of Windows Repair (All in One), I've managed to get my PC back in working order without a reinstall. This is a great resource so thank you guys...and I'd especially highlight the great advice from Shane.