Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to sputtered aluminum second surface mirrors with tapes optionally provided thereto, and/or methods of making the same. The tape replaces the paint backing that conventionally is used in the mirror industry to help protect the reflecting member of the mirror from the ingress of moisture. The final layer of the thin film layer stack is selected so as to help make its interface with the tape less sensitive to moisture. Because the safety tape can remain adhered to the layer stack even in high humidity environments, such minors may be used in a potentially broader array of applications and/or environments such as, for example, bathrooms, interior and/or exterior applications in areas where there are humid climates, etc. In one of the example embodiments, the tape is a safety tape.