How can I remove the black smoke marks on the face front brick of my fireplace? 

1. There are many chemicals on the market you can purchase to remove the black smoke. Follow the instructions carefully, they do work.
    
2. We have discovered the cheapest and most effective way to remove the black smoke marks is with the use of any type of laundry detergent. Add a little detergent in a bowl with a little water, make a paste and scrub it on the brick surface (it will take some elbow grease) and then rise with cold water, you may need to do this a few times, but it will work without a chemical odour.