Short Answer
Exhaust ventilation allows attic air to leave through higher portions of the roof. Examples include ridge vents, hip vents, static vents, and other approved systems.
Detailed Explanation
Exhaust ventilation is the exit point for warm, moist attic air. Because warm air rises, exhaust vents are installed at or near the highest point of the roof. The most common types are ridge vents (installed along the roof peak), static vents (box-like vents installed near the ridge), and powered attic fans (motorized vents that actively pull air out). As warm air rises and exits through the exhaust vents, it draws cool air in through the intake vents, creating the continuous airflow that ventilates the attic. The key is that exhaust ventilation must be paired with adequate intake ventilation to function properly.
Why It Matters
Exhaust ventilation without adequate intake is ineffective and can even cause problems by pulling conditioned air from the living space.