I think using a second imaging program as well as say Windows Imaging is good insurance. I use Windows inbuilt plus free Macrium Reflect.
What I do for Windows backup is:
1) I always use the "Create a system image" button to make an image when I choose. I only make one image and either delete it move it within a partition or rename it. Multiple images are stored using a difference image kept in shadow storage. I personally don't think this is a robust procedure.
2) When setting up the backup schedule I choose "Let me Choose" and untick the create an image box. I leave the other default settings. I also choose to create a file/folder backup manually using "Create a Backup Now".
You can extract files and folders quite easily from images using this tutorial:
System Image - Extract Files Using Disk Management