Abstract: A bracket apparatus having a general U-shaped configuration with spaced front and back plates interconnected by a bottom plate. An angled plate extends upward from the front plate of the bracket. One or more of the hanger bracket apparatus are secured to the support surface. A header joist at the proximal end of the deck to the support surface is supported on the angled plate of the apparatus with a header joist at the opposite, distal end of the deck resting on the ground prior to positioning the deck in its horizontal orientation relative to the vertical support surface. As the distal end of the deck is elevated to orient the deck horizontal relative to the support surface, the header joist at the proximal end of the deck slides downward and is received between the front and back plates of the hanger bracket apparatus secured to the support surface.