The Jet-Black Franchise is a mobile, home-based asphalt maintenance business specializing in sealcoating, crack repair, and line striping for residential and commercial properties. Founded in 1987 by Andy Hoiland and franchising since 1993, Jet-Black has grown into one of the few nationally recognized brands in a fragmented industry dominated by small contractors.

With more than three decades of experience and over 500,000 completed jobs, Jet-Black has built its reputation on professionalism, quality, and consistency. The franchise pairs proven operational systems with proprietary technology—helping owners deliver reliable, high-visibility services that protect and enhance paved surfaces across the country.

According to the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the estimated initial investment to open a Jet-Black franchise ranges from $117,923 to $173,773*. This figure includes the franchise fee, a fully equipped sealcoating trailer, opening inventory, and approximately three months of working capital.

In this guide, we’ll break down the Jet-Black business model, startup costs, training and support, and competitive advantages—all presented with factual accuracy and compliance-safe language to help entrepreneurs evaluate whether this essential services brand fits their goals.

For those comparing opportunities across the franchise sector, we at the Franchise Brokers Association provide expert resources and personalized guidance to help you evaluate your options with confidence.

This article is sponsored by Jet-Black. The content has been created in partnership with the brand to deliver transparent insights into its model and franchise opportunity.

Who Owns Jet-Black and What’s the Brand Story?

The Jet-Black Franchise was founded in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1987 by Andy Hoiland, a local entrepreneur who recognized an opportunity to bring professionalism and consistency to an industry often seen as seasonal or unstructured: asphalt sealcoating. Franchising began in 1993, and the company is now headquartered in Savage, Minnesota, where it continues to refine its systems and brand standards.

From its earliest days, Jet-Black set out to elevate pavement maintenance from a local “truck-and-trailer” trade to a professional, customer-focused business. The brand introduced uniformed crews, branded vehicles and trailers, and centralized scheduling and customer communication—transforming what had once been a small-scale service into a recognizable, scalable model.

Jet-Black’s commitment to trust, transparency, and presentation helped it stand out in a fragmented marketplace. Its signature black-and-yellow branding, focus on safety, and consistently clean, professional image became synonymous with reliability and quality in asphalt care.

The brand’s credibility and reach have also expanded through synergy with sister companies such as Yellow Dawg Striping, which focuses on parking-lot line painting and markings. Together, these aligned brands form a growing family of pavement-maintenance franchises that cover nearly every aspect of the industry—from sealcoating and crack repair to striping and signage—creating a unified network of essential property-service solutions.

How Much Does a Jet-Black Franchise Cost?

The total initial investment to open a Jet-Black Franchise ranges from $117,923 to $173,773*, depending on factors such as territory size, equipment needs, and whether you launch a single or dual-unit operation. This investment includes your franchise fee, sealcoating trailer, startup materials, and three months of additional working capital.

Startup Costs and Fees.

Type of Expenditure	Low Estimate*	High Estimate*
Initial Franchise Fee*	$48,000	$80,000
Sealcoating Trailer*	$21,335	$21,335
Initial Inventory Package*	$28,038	$38,038
Opening Support Fee*	$5,000	$5,000
Training Expenses*	$500	$500
Business Office/Garage Lease (3 months)*	$0	$1,500
Computer Equipment*	$0	$2,000
Phone & Internet Access*	$50	$400
Truck*	$10,000	$20,000
Additional Funds (3 months)*	$5,000	$5,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment*	$117,923	$173,773

Disclaimer: All data is drawn from the company’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Figures are estimates and may vary based on market conditions, local pricing, inflation, and operational choices.

What Influences Your Startup Costs.

Your exact investment will depend on several key factors:

• Territory size and population density — larger territories may require additional marketing and operational resources.
• Fleet and equipment choices — whether you begin with one or two full-service trailers or trucks.
• Local market conditions — including labor rates, fuel costs, and storage options.

Because Jet-Black is a mobile, home-based model, many owners minimize overhead by operating from a home office or small garage rather than leasing retail space. This lean structure helps simplify startup and keep operating costs manageable.

Getting Operational Quickly.

Jet-Black’s setup process is designed for efficient activation. After completing training, equipment configuration, and local marketing preparation, franchisees can typically begin scheduling jobs shortly after launch—weather permitting and once all licensing and insurance requirements are complete.

This makes Jet-Black a compelling option for entrepreneurs looking to enter the essential property maintenance and pavement restoration sector with a proven, low-overhead model.

What Does the Jet-Black Franchise Do?

The Jet-Black Franchise delivers professional asphalt maintenance services for both residential and commercial clients. The brand’s focus is on preserving pavement integrity, improving curb appeal, and helping property owners extend the life of their asphalt surfaces through preventive care.

The Core Services.

• Sealcoating – Application of a protective coating that restores rich black color while shielding asphalt from damage caused by water, oil, UV rays, and oxidation.
  
• Crack Sealing – Fills and seals pavement cracks to prevent moisture penetration and sub-surface deterioration.
  
• Line Striping – Provides clear, compliant parking-lot layouts, ADA-accessible markings, directional arrows, and curb painting.
  
• Small Repairs & Patching – Handles localized surface restoration, edge repair, and minor asphalt correction.
  
• Commercial Maintenance Programs – Offers structured service plans for property managers, HOAs, schools, and municipalities, ensuring their lots remain safe, attractive, and compliant year-round.

How the Business Creates Ongoing Demand.

Because asphalt maintenance is cyclical, Jet-Black’s services are driven by repeat customers and recurring maintenance contracts. Residential driveways typically require re-sealing every few years, while commercial parking lots and municipal surfaces follow set maintenance schedules—creating dependable, recurring service opportunities.

What Makes the Jet-Black Franchise Model Stand Out?

The Jet-Black Franchise holds a distinctive position in the asphalt maintenance industry, a market often fragmented among small, independent operators. By combining a trusted national brand with proprietary technology, streamlined operations, and strong franchisor support, Jet-Black offers a level of professionalism that sets it apart from traditional sealcoating and pavement repair businesses.

Key Differentiators.

• Recognized Multi-State Brand – Jet-Black has established a consistent presence across multiple U.S. markets, completing hundreds of thousands of pavement maintenance jobs since its founding.
  
• Proprietary Technology Integration – The STARS Technology Solution (Scheduling, Tracking, Accounting, and Reporting System) centralizes quoting, dispatching, invoicing, and customer communication for a more efficient workflow.
  
• Group Purchasing Power – Franchisees access negotiated pricing on key materials and supplies through Jet-Black’s vendor network, helping standardize quality and simplify procurement.
  
• Marketing and Lead Support – Corporate-led digital campaigns, seasonal promotions, and advertising tools support franchisees in generating inbound leads and maintaining brand visibility.
  
• Built for Scalability – The model allows for expansion through additional trucks, crews, and complementary services such as striping or small repair work—all within a single operating territory.
  
• Essential, Yearly Demand – Because asphalt maintenance is preventive and recurring, Jet-Black serves a stable segment of the property maintenance industry, driven by long-term upkeep cycles rather than discretionary spending.

Jet-Black’s approach blends the independence of a local business with the strength of a unified national system. By focusing on professional standards, consistent branding, and digital efficiency, the franchise gives owners the tools to build trust in a service category that customers rely on for safety, appearance, and long-term property value.

What Technology and Support Do Jet-Black Franchisees Receive?

The Jet-Black Franchise equips owners with advanced tools and hands-on guidance from day one. Its proprietary STARS Technology Platform and structured support network simplify everything from quoting and scheduling to marketing and operations.

STARS Technology Platform.

Jet-Black’s cloud-based STARS System (Scheduling, Tracking, Accounting, and Reporting Software) was designed specifically for pavement-maintenance operations. It helps franchisees manage every stage of the job cycle with precision and transparency:

• CRM & Quoting: Captures leads, creates professional estimates, and tracks customer history for future service intervals.
• Scheduling & Routing: Automates daily routes, dispatches crews efficiently, and minimizes drive time.
• Inventory Management: Monitors materials and usage per job to maintain consistent supply levels.
• Reporting Dashboard: Provides real-time visibility into project metrics, job volume, and performance analytics—helping owners make data-driven decisions.

Franchisee Support System.

Beyond technology, Jet-Black emphasizes training, collaboration, and operational consistency across its network of franchisees.

• Centralized Marketing: National advertising and digital campaigns generate brand awareness and deliver inbound leads to local franchisees.
• Training Programs: Includes comprehensive start-up training—covering technical, business, and customer-service fundamentals—followed by ongoing refresher sessions.
• Operational Coaching: Regional consultants and peer mentors provide hands-on guidance through the first seasons of operation and beyond.
• Vendor Partnerships: Franchisees access preferred suppliers for sealers, additives, equipment, and branded materials under negotiated terms.
• Collaborative Community: A strong peer network of 40+ owners shares best practices, operational insights, and support through regular meetings and digital forums.

The combination of proprietary technology and structured franchise support allows Jet-Black owners to operate efficiently, maintain consistency, and focus on customer relationships rather than administrative complexity. Together, these systems help reinforce Jet-Black’s reputation for professionalism and reliability across the asphalt maintenance industry.

What Does a Day in the Life of a Jet-Black Franchisee Look Like?

Owning a Jet-Black Franchise means leading a professional service business, not just performing the work. Franchisees oversee crews, manage customer relationships, and coordinate daily operations while driving local growth.

A Typical Day.

• Morning: Review schedules, confirm material needs, and check weather conditions. Dispatch crews to residential or commercial job sites and ensure all equipment is ready.
• Midday: Conduct site visits, meet prospective customers, and inspect completed work for quality assurance.
• Afternoon: Manage estimates, customer follow-ups, and local networking—building long-term relationships with property owners and managers.
• Evening: Review the day’s results using Jet-Black’s STARS dashboard, issue invoices, and prepare routes and materials for the next day.

Most Jet-Black franchise owners focus on management and business development, not manual application. Technicians handle sealcoating, striping, and repairs, while the owner prioritizes scheduling, customer satisfaction, and growth strategy. This structure allows owners to build recurring relationships and refine their operation season after season.

Who Makes an Ideal Jet-Black Franchise Owner?

The Jet-Black Franchise attracts hands-on leaders who enjoy managing teams, working outdoors, and building local business relationships. It’s a fit for entrepreneurs who want a scalable, service-based model without the overhead or long hours of retail operations.

Best-Fit Owner Profiles.

• Sales-Oriented Professionals: Individuals who enjoy networking, relationship-building, and local business development.
• Experienced Managers: Those transitioning from corporate roles who excel at organizing people, systems, and schedules.
• Family or Partner Investors: Pairs or family teams seeking a visible, community-rooted business with long-term growth potential.
• Seasonal Entrepreneurs: Owners who prefer an active, outdoor business that scales with seasonal demand cycles and team capacity.

No prior experience in construction or asphalt services is required—Jet-Black provides all technical, operational, and sales training during onboarding and through ongoing support.

Successful Jet-Black franchisees combine leadership, organization, and customer focus. The model rewards those who can balance field operations with long-term client relationships—turning recurring maintenance into repeat business season after season.

Training & Onboarding: How Jet-Black Prepares You for Success.

The Jet-Black Franchise provides a structured, hands-on training and support program designed to help new owners launch confidently and operate efficiently from day one. Every phase—from setup to scaling—is supported by real-world instruction, on-site coaching, and technology-driven tools.

• Pre-Launch Setup: Before opening, franchisees receive guidance on business registration, financing preparation, and marketing setup. Jet-Black’s team helps owners align timelines, secure required permits, and prepare for local launch campaigns.
• Initial Training at Headquarters: Training begins at Jet-Black’s headquarters in Minnesota, where owners learn the fundamentals of asphalt maintenance operations, customer service, and local marketing strategy. Sessions cover everything from equipment handling and material use to sales conversations and job quoting.
• On-Site Field Training: After classroom training, field trainers travel to the new franchisee’s market to assist with early jobs. This on-site support focuses on crew management, safety standards, quality assurance, and real-time troubleshooting during the first projects.
• Ongoing Coaching and Development: Support continues after launch through scheduled calls, webinars, and regional meetings, ensuring franchisees stay current with new products, technologies, and best practices. Owners can also access an active peer network for operational insights and collaboration.
• Technology Training: Franchisees receive hands-on training with Jet-Black’s STARS platform, the proprietary software that manages CRM, scheduling, quoting, and reporting. This ensures every owner understands how to monitor performance and maintain consistent service standards across teams.

The Jet-Black onboarding experience balances technical mastery with business leadership, giving franchisees the confidence to run operations, lead teams, and deliver consistent, professional results in their markets. From pre-launch setup to ongoing field support, every element is designed to help owners start strong and grow strategically.

Growth Potential & Market Outlook.

The pavement maintenance industry is a large, under-branded segment of the U.S. essential services market. With millions of paved surfaces requiring ongoing protection and repair, the sector represents a multibillion-dollar opportunity driven by recurring need, not consumer trends.

Evergreen Demand: Asphalt naturally deteriorates over time due to weather, oxidation, and traffic wear. Every residential driveway, commercial parking lot, or municipal roadway eventually requires sealcoating, crack repair, and re-striping, creating consistent, predictable demand year after year.

Fragmented Competition: Few national or regional brands have achieved strong name recognition or standardized systems in this field. That fragmentation allows Jet-Black to stand out as a trusted, professional alternative to local independents, with recognizable branding, technology, and customer support.

Residential and Commercial Repeat Cycles.

• Residential: Homeowners typically need re-sealing every 1–3 years, creating steady repeat business.
• Commercial: Property managers, HOAs, and municipalities often sign multi-year maintenance agreements, adding long-term stability and consistent workflow.

Technology-Driven Efficiency: Through its proprietary STARS technology platform, Jet-Black modernizes an industry that has historically relied on manual scheduling and paper-based quoting. Real-time dashboards, automated reminders, and route optimization tools help franchisees manage growth efficiently while maintaining service quality.

For entrepreneurs, asphalt maintenance bridges blue-collar reliability with white-collar business systems. It’s a rare category where physical work meets scalable, technology-backed management—offering strong fundamentals, repeat customers, and a clear path to local market leadership.

Competitive Advantages at a Glance.

The Jet-Black Franchise stands out in the asphalt maintenance industry through its combination of brand strength, operational simplicity, and long-term credibility. Here’s what makes the model distinctive among service-based franchise opportunities:

Key Strengths.

• Three Decades of Proven Performance
  With over 30 years in operation, Jet-Black has refined its systems, training, and technology to serve both residential and commercial clients consistently across multiple states.
  
• Low Overhead, Home-Based Model
  The mobile structure allows franchisees to operate from a home office or small garage—minimizing fixed costs and enabling faster startup timelines.
  
• Recurring Demand from Natural Maintenance Cycles
  Asphalt sealcoating and crack repair are recurring needs for homeowners, businesses, and municipalities, ensuring a steady flow of repeat business.
  
• Recognized National Brand
  Jet-Black is one of the few asphalt maintenance companies with nationwide brand recognition, supported by uniform branding, professional crews, and digital marketing.
  
• Customer Trust and Satisfaction
  The system’s commitment to professionalism and quality has earned it over 10,000 verified five-star Google reviews from satisfied customers nationwide.
  
• Industry Recognition and Longevity
  Jet-Black has been recognized in the Franchise 500 rankings for over 15 years, highlighting its stability and consistent franchise support.
  
• Strong Peer Validation
  Franchisees benefit from a collaborative ownership network that shares best practices, helping new operators learn from experienced peers.
  
• Scalable Growth Path
  Jet-Black’s territory system allows owners to expand into multi-unit operations as their business matures, adding crews, vehicles, and service lines to increase capacity.
  
• Future-Proof Service
  Pavement maintenance remains an essential, hands-on trade unlikely to be replaced by automation—offering long-term relevance and resilience.

Jet-Black combines the dependability of an essential service with the sophistication of a modern franchise system. For entrepreneurs seeking a balance between operational independence and brand-backed structure, it offers a rare blend of trust, technology, and scalability in a market that continues to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Jet-Black Franchise.

How much does it cost to open a Jet-Black Franchise?

The total initial investment to open a Jet-Black Franchise ranges from $117,923 to $173,773*. This estimate includes the franchise fee ($48,000–$80,000*), proprietary sealcoating trailer, initial inventory, and approximately three months of working capital.

What services does Jet-Black provide?

Jet-Black specializes in asphalt sealcoating, crack repair, and line striping for residential driveways and commercial parking lots. These services protect pavement from weather, water, and chemical damage while improving appearance and extending surface life.

Who owns Jet-Black?

The franchise was founded by Andy Hoiland in 1987 and is headquartered in Savage, Minnesota. Jet-Black began franchising in 1993 and continues to operate as one of the few nationally recognized names in the asphalt maintenance industry.

Do franchise owners need prior experience?

No prior construction or trade experience is required. Jet-Black provides comprehensive technical, operational, and marketing training to help new owners learn the business from the ground up.

Is the business seasonal?

In colder climates, yes — most sealcoating and maintenance work takes place between spring and fall, when weather conditions are optimal. Franchisees typically use the off-season for marketing, planning, customer outreach, and equipment maintenance.

What kind of ongoing support is provided?

Franchise owners receive continuous marketing support, access to the STARS technology system, operational coaching, and ongoing field training. Jet-Black also fosters a peer-to-peer network where franchisees share insights, challenges, and best practices.

Is Jet-Black a good fit for part-time or semi-absentee owners?

While Jet-Black is an owner-led business, some franchisees structure operations to allow supervised crews to handle daily work once the business is established. The model offers flexibility based on your desired level of involvement.

Is Jet-Black the Right Franchise for You?

The Jet-Black Franchise offers entrepreneurs a structured path into a stable, service-based business that blends professionalism, technology, and hands-on leadership. With its low fixed overhead, recurring customer demand, and recognizable national brand, Jet-Black represents an attractive option for those seeking growth within the essential property maintenance sector.

This model suits owners who value tangible results and community visibility—people who want to oversee teams, manage client relationships, and build a business that customers can literally see improving their neighborhoods. The combination of asset-light operations, proven systems, and technology-driven scheduling and quoting tools makes Jet-Black adaptable for both hands-on owner-operators and executive-style managers focused on scaling multiple territories.

If you’re looking for a business that pairs long-term relevance with a recognizable, trusted brand, Jet-Black may be the right addition to your portfolio.